Kakkanad: The Syro-Malabar Public Affairs Commission has strongly criticized the demolition of a cross by forest guards in the Thommankuthu region, located within the St. Thomas Church’s lemon grove in Thodupuzha—a long-established migrant settlement. The Commission condemned the act as unlawful, deeply offensive to Christian believers, and a blatant breach of religious liberty. It also pointed out the Forest Department’s persistent failure to manage wild animal intrusions, highlighting systemic negligence.
Across Kerala, countless families reside on land technically categorized as encroachments, yet these areas host homes, religious institutions, and community facilities of various faiths. In Thommankuthu, residents—including members of the parish—have occupied and cultivated this land for nearly 60 years. Despite this long-standing presence, forest officials demolished a cross located 750 meters from their office, in an area that includes housing and other developments. This action, the Commission argues, has caused spiritual hurt and constitutes a serious affront to religious dignity.
The Commission also asserted that the forest officials' actions violate provisions in the Forest Conservation Amendment Act of 2023, effective since August 4. Under this revised law, areas like Thommankuthu no longer meet the criteria for forest classification. As such, the legal procedures for verifying land and issuing rightful ownership titles must be urgently completed.
The Syro-Malabar Commission further expressed concern over what it calls a pattern of aggressive behavior by forest personnel in communities bordering forest zones. It suspects a coordinated attempt to target Christian symbols and places of worship under the guise of forest protection. The lack of response from both ruling and opposition political parties was called out as deeply disappointing.
The Commission demands strict disciplinary measures against the forest guards responsible and urges the state government to ensure the immediate reinstatement of the demolished cross at St. Thomas Church in Thommankuthu.