Kerala Bishop Criticizes Modi Government Over Treatment of Christians
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – A senior Orthodox Church bishop in Kerala has openly criticized the government following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Catholic bishops, accusing it of contradictory behavior. The remarks come in the wake of two incidents in Palakkad where Christmas celebrations at government schools were disrupted.
“While they honor Christian leaders in Delhi, here they destroy our traditions and celebrations,” the bishop said, referring to Modi’s outreach to Catholic leaders in the capital. The meeting was seen as an effort to improve relations with the Christian community, especially in southern states like Kerala, where they hold significant influence.
The incidents in Palakkad involved reported interference by right-wing groups, which disrupted Christmas festivities in government-run schools. The events have sparked outrage among local Christian communities, who accuse the government of turning a blind eye to such acts.
“These disruptions are not isolated. They reflect a larger pattern of neglect and hostility toward minorities,” the bishop added, urging authorities to take immediate action to protect religious freedom and cultural practices.
Opposition parties in Kerala have seized the opportunity to criticize the ruling BJP at the national level. “This is hypocrisy at its peak. They talk about unity in Delhi but fail to uphold secularism in states,” said a senior Congress leader.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders in Kerala have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, insisting that the party respects all religions and that such incidents are being exaggerated.
The controversy highlights the growing tension between the Christian community and the central government, even as Modi seeks to win support in Kerala, a state where the BJP has historically struggled to gain a foothold.
With Christmas approaching, the community awaits decisive action from the government to ensure that such disruptions do not recur, and to restore faith in the promise of religious harmony.