Mar Thoma Metropolitan voices concern over attacks on Christians

Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, head of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the growing attacks on the Christian community in India and criticised the Election Commission of India for showing intolerance towards those who point out errors on the voter list.

Inaugurating the annual representative assembly of the Mar Thoma Church at Thiruvalla, the Metropolitan said that rights should not be denied on the grounds of technicalities. Instead, people must be given the opportunity to correct mistakes. “The right to vote is the citizen’s fundamental right to determine governance. Neither the rulers nor constitutional institutions have the authority to deny or undermine it,” he asserted.

He said that the rising attacks and police actions against Christians, particularly in North Indian States, are a matter of grave concern. “It is alarming that even people’s representatives are now going so far as to openly promise rewards for acting against priests and missionaries. The anti-conversion law is often misused. Given their comparatively small population, Christians should be declared a micro-minority and extended protection,” he added.

The Metropolitan also criticised the State government, warning against its policies that weaken the aided education sector in Kerala. He pointed out that the government’s stance on disability reservations was discouraging and said that converting teachers into daily wage staff without granting permanent appointments would ultimately lead to a decline in educational quality.

Suffragan Metropolitans, bishops and senior clergy of the Church were present. Church secretary Aby T. Mammen presented the annual report and the statement of accounts.

A total of 1,604 delegates from across the world are taking part in the assembly, which will conclude on September 4.