Problematic Portrayal of Migrant Workers in Malayalam Print Media: An Analytical Reading

Throughout its history, the southern Indian state of Kerala has been distinguished by significant migration, both inward and outward. This phenomenon has evolved over the centuries and played a vital role in the state’s development and social dynamics. Notably, the Gulf migration that began in the 1960s following the post-colonial era profoundly impacted Kerala’s progress. Remittances from Keralites working abroad have significantly contributed to the state’s GDP. Concurrently, Kerala has also witnessed the influx of workers from other Indian states, which began in the 1980s, primarily driven by better wages, employment opportunities, and improved living conditions. In the initial stages, most of these migrants came from neighbouring states such as Tamil Nadu, but later, the trend extended to encompass people from North India and the North-Eastern states. While some Tamil migrants returned due to improved conditions in Tamil Nadu, Kerala now hosts over 35 lakh inter-state migrant workers.

Shebeen Mehaboob AP aims to assess Kerala society’s perception of inter-state migrant workers and the role played by Malayalam media in shaping this perception.