Frustrated by the perceived neglect towards the christian community in recent Central and State Budgets, the Syro-Malabar Church has issued a circular questioning key policy failures of both governments.

The circular, undersigned by Archbishop Mar Thomas Tharayil, was read out in all parishes under the Changanassery Archdiocese on Sunday. It was released in connection with Karshaka Nasrani Munnettam, a protest march of christian farmers set to take place in Changanassery on February 15.

Accusing the government of disregarding the contributions of the christian community to society, the circular underscored its role in shaping Kerala’s development model. The message also highlighted the struggles of farmers in Kuttanad and the high ranges, who are grappling with issues ranging from climate change to frequent wildlife incursions.

Educational institutions

“The lack of government intervention has only worsened their plight,” the circular noted. It also raised concerns over the crisis faced by Christian-run educational institutions, which were once pioneers in providing quality aided education, but are now battling serious challenges.

The circular criticised the government for converting christian holy days into regular working days and deliberately stalling long-pending reservations for Dalit Christians, a demand raised 74 years ago. It also noted the State government’s failure in publishing the Justice Benjamin Koshy Commission Report, submitted on May 17, 2023, which proposed measures for uplifting the economically disadvantaged christian minorities in Kerala.

“At a time when mainstream political parties view people’s problems through the narrow lens of vote-bank politics, we have a duty to be the voice and presence of those marginalised. The belief among grass-root communities that they have advocates fighting for their rights give them immense confidence,” the Archbishop stated in the circular.