Amid reports that the Catholic Church is seeking to regain a political presence in the state, the executive meeting of the Pastoral Council of the Archdiocese of Changanacherry has called for the concerns of the Christian community in Kerala to be reflected in the manifestos of all political fronts ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Inaugurated by Thomas Tharayil, Archbishop of Changanassery, the meeting called upon political parties to clearly state their positions on issues affecting the community. The Council also decided to provide all parties with a comprehensive list of demands.
Key issues highlighted include follow-up on the appointment of differently-abled teachers in aided educational institutions; measures based on the reports of the JB Koshi Commission and the Swaminathan Commission; policies for the conversion of aided colleges into universities and positions at deemed and foreign universities; proper application of minority rights and scholarships in proportion to population; recognition of the Christian community as a micro-minority; and a clear stance on the growing attacks against the Christian population in India.
The move takes on particular significance in light of the church’s broader effort to strengthen the political presence and influence of the Catholic community in Kerala ahead of the elections.
Published – 11 March 2026 20:08 IST
