KOCHI: When the Idukki district administration steamed ahead with its eviction drive and removed the cross at Pappathichola, strong protests from the various denominations of Christian institutions, especially the Catholic Church, were expected.
Surprisingly, the Church leaders welcomed the move, though they expressed displeasure over the manner in which the cross was removed. Major churches echoed similar sentiments in this regard.
The Catholic Church will never support encroachment of government land, but we cannot agree with the way the cross was removed. It may be recalled this happened in a country where the cow, a religious symbol, is respected. If it was a sincere effort, they have to prove it by reclaiming the last inch of encroached land. ‘The government preaches secularism, but follows Sangh Parivar style— Fr Varghese Vallikkat, Kerala Catholic Bishop’s Council deputy secretary
The bureaucrats misused media. Government officers could have handled the issue in a mature way. It would not have been in discussion if the officers removed the cross and isued a press release detailing the proceeding. But in the case of Papathichola, the visuals were on TV screen the whole day. We even a suspect a conspiracy between the officers — Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) office-bearer Shaji George
The issue has grown into a political issue than a religious issue. Syro-Malabar Church head Mar George Cardinal Alencherry has already made clear the stand of the Church. The religious sentiments were hurt. Demolition of the cross using a machine was telecast by TV channels the whole day— Fr Jimmy Poochakattu of the Syro-Malabar Church