Kerala Laity Organization Condemns CBCI President's Remarks on Communal Divisions
Almaaya Munnettam, a prominent laity organization within the Ernakulam-Angamaly archdiocese, held a press conference on Thursday to strongly criticize recent statements made by Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, the president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI). The group expressed deep concern over comments made by the archbishop in an interview published by the Church-run daily Deepika, alleging that his remarks could fuel communal polarization in Kerala ahead of upcoming elections.
Archbishop's Controversial Interview Statements
In the interview, Archbishop Thazhath addressed questions about whether certain organizations are attempting to create communalism among Christians. He stated that even minor differences of opinion within the community are being deliberately exploited to sow division. Specifically, the prelate pointed to what he described as "malicious interference" in the dispute over liturgical practices within the Syro-Malabar Church.
"According to an official who raided the Popular Front, some of their plans included creating divisions within the Syro-Malabar Church. They calculated that by dividing and causing disputes within the most organized section of the Church, they could weaken it," Archbishop Thazhath was quoted as saying in the interview.
Almaaya Munnettam's Strong Protest
The laity organization responded with forceful objections, arguing that the archbishop's statements raise serious suspicions about an agenda to create communal discord. Almaaya Munnettam's spokesperson, Riju Kanjookkaran, told media that the narrative suggesting the CBCI president is advancing the agenda of Sangh Parivar organizations is condemnable.
Kanjookkaran emphasized that the allegation against the Popular Front is not trivial. "It is a serious accusation made authoritatively by the head of Christian churches in India against another prominent community. He has an obligation to fully disclose these matters stated in the interview given to the Deepika newspaper," he stated.
The spokesperson demanded greater transparency, noting that the vague reference to "an officer who raided the Popular Front said so" is insufficient. "The officer's name, how Popular Front attempted this and through whom should be clarified. Otherwise, this can only be seen as a deliberate attempt to create communal discord," Kanjookkaran asserted.
Background of Liturgical Dispute and Archbishop's Role
Archbishop Thazhath was one of the administrators appointed by Rome in July 2022 to resolve the ongoing liturgical dispute in the Ernakulam-Angamaly archdiocese. This dispute centers on efforts to unify the style of Mass in the Syro-Malabar Church by implementing a uniform liturgy, replacing the various styles practiced in different parts of Kerala.
The proposed changes faced stiff resistance in the Ernakulam-Angamaly archdiocese, leading to violent protests. Due to continued opposition, Archbishop Thazhath resigned from his administrative role in December 2023. Currently, a resolution formula is in place within the archdiocese to address the liturgical concerns.
Implications for Kerala's Social Fabric
The controversy highlights broader tensions within Kerala's Christian community and raises questions about external influences on religious affairs. Almaaya Munnettam's criticism underscores fears that such statements could exacerbate existing divisions, particularly in a politically sensitive environment.
The organization's call for detailed evidence and transparency reflects a growing demand for accountability from religious leaders, especially when making allegations that could impact inter-community relations. As Kerala navigates complex social and political landscapes, this incident adds to ongoing debates about communal harmony and the role of religious institutions in public discourse.
