Former State Human Rights Commission Chairman JB Koshy launched the empowerment year of Palakkad Diocese at Yuvakshetra College in Mundur on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Koshy said the report he submitted on the state of the Christian community in the state was not directed against any other community. He said many people were struggling to live with dignity, especially those in the hilly areas where mere survival had become difficult.
“If the crops grow on trees, squirrels and monkeys will take them. If they plant them in the ground, wild boars will destroy them. And if people try to check their farms, they risk being attacked by wild animals,” he said.
Bishop of Palakkad Mar Peter Kochupurackal, who presided over the function, said that the Syro-Malabar community is increasingly becoming global amidst the changing social environment of Kerala. He pointed out that migration is driven by social, political and economic factors. “People are not asking for charity, they are asking for their constitutional rights,” he said.
Bobby Bastian, General Convener, welcomed the gathering. Treesa Liz Sebastian, Global Vice President of the Catholic Congress, gave the keynote address. Justin Pallivathukal presented the action plan for the coming year. Mr. Koshy issued operational guidelines and Fr. Arun Kalamattathil outlined the theme.
Published – 1 March 2026 21:37 IST
