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Bindhu Krishna on Career, Motherhood, and Politics: Overcoming Challenges

Bindhu Krishna, the newly appointed Kerala Minister for Labour and Women and Child Development, has opened up about her journey through repeated electoral defeats, financial struggles, and the challenge of balancing motherhood with a demanding political career. In a candid interview, she reflected on her determination to win after three consecutive losses, stating, “I must win; nothing less will do.” She acknowledged the pressure of being labeled a “loser” and the need to prove herself in a male-dominated political landscape.

Krishna, who grew up in a Congress family in Kollam, recalled her early exposure to politics through her father’s tea shop, where political discussions were a daily affair. She joined the Kerala Students Union (KSU) during college and later became a lawyer, balancing her legal practice with party work. After the birth of her son, she faced the dilemma of choosing between her profession and politics, ultimately prioritizing politics. She emphasized that her legal training helped her navigate challenges, including a recent incident where she confronted a police officer who tried to summon her son as a witness without proper procedure.

As Minister, Krishna aims to address workplace issues faced by women, particularly in sales, teaching, and nursing. She criticized the gender pay gap and inadequate working conditions, vowing to enforce labour laws and ensure equal pay for equal work. She also highlighted the need for better childcare facilities for working mothers, drawing from her own experience of leaving her son at a creche. Despite the stress of managing multiple roles, she remains committed to her vision of a fairer labour culture in Kerala.