Kottayam: Following the elections, controversy has erupted within sections of the Catholic Church over allegations that certain bishops and the Church’s mouthpiece Deepika had, on the eve of the polls, called upon believers to vote for the Congress–Muslim League-led UDF. The development has triggered strong protests and internal dissent, with many accusing sections of the Church leadership of engaging in overt political activity.
Reports indicate that on Wednesday(April 8), bishops from Kanjirappally and Thrissur dioceses reached out to monasteries and affiliated institutions, urging them to support the UDF in the polls. This intervention has drawn sharp criticism from within the Church itself. A significant section of clergy and believers has expressed opposition, arguing that such directives are inappropriate in a community where followers support multiple political parties, including the Congress, BJP, and CPI(M). The prevailing sentiment among critics is that the call was misguided and undermines the Church’s neutrality.
Strong reaction from NDA leaders
BJP leader and NDA candidate from Poonjar, P. C. George, along with his son Shaun George, who is the state vice president and NDA candidate from Pala, reacted strongly to the developments. Shaun George stated openly that both he and the BJP had actively intervened on several issues concerning the Church in the past. He made it clear that it was unacceptable for certain Church leaders to openly campaign in favour of the UDF. He also confirmed that a formal written complaint would be filed in accordance with the directions of the Church leadership.
P. C. George criticised Bishop Jose Pulikkal of Kanjirappally and Deepika, while noting that bishops in Pala had refrained from political involvement and had not interfered in the electoral process. He asserted that the Church ultimately belongs to the people, not the bishops. Raising concerns about financial transparency, he also stated that the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) would be strictly implemented and questioned why certain bishops opposed scrutiny of foreign funds.
George further remarked that bishops who engage in political discourse risk being perceived as politicians. He questioned the propriety of directly contacting monasteries to solicit votes for a particular alliance, alleging that “some dishonest individuals within the Church are engaged in such activities” and should be rejected by believers. Shoun George added that if the Church were to adopt an anti-BJP stance, it would eventually have to reconsider its position.
The remarks have intensified internal tensions, with indications that many believers are angered by what they see as politicisation of religious authority. Observers suggest that more voices within the community may come forward in the coming days to express dissent. The controversy also recalls the earlier Munambam waqf issue, during which several believers, including local vicars, had stood for what they described as justice and truth. However, critics allege that even at that time, certain bishops sided with the Congress, leading to disillusionment among sections of the faithful.
