Kottappuram: Kottappuram Bishop Dr. Ambrose Puthenveetil has called on the government and judiciary to act swiftly and decisively to ensure justice for the residents of Munambam. Speaking at a solidarity meeting held at the Velankannimatha Parish Hall in Munambam-Kadappuram, the bishop emphasized that the long-standing issue should no longer be subject to bureaucratic delay. The event was organized by the Kerala Regional Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC), along with the dioceses of Varappuzha and Kottappuram and local community groups, in support of the Munambam Land Conservation Committee’s ongoing struggle.

Bishop Puthenveetil highlighted the significance of the Justice Ramachandran Nair Commission, which had been appointed to investigate the land dispute and make recommendations to the state government. With the commission’s report already submitted, the bishop urged the authorities to promptly remove the disputed land in Munambam from the Waqf Board’s asset registry and take action to implement justice. He also affirmed that peaceful protests would continue until a fair resolution is achieved, assuring the public that the Church stands in solidarity with the affected families.

The solidarity event drew participation from prominent religious and civic leaders. Bishop Emeritus Dr. Joseph Karikassery presided over the function. Among the key speakers were KCBC Deputy Secretary Fr. Thomas Tharayil, KRLCC General Secretary Dr. Jiju Arakkathara, Varappuzha Archdiocese representative Fr. Denny Peringat, KLCA State President Adv. Sherry J. Thomas, Kudumbami Seva Samajam State President Shyamkumar, KLCWA State General Secretary Matilda Michael, and KCYM Latin State President Paul Jose. Also addressing the gathering were Fr. Antony Xavier Tharayil, vicar of Kadappuram Velankannimatha Church and spokesperson for the Land Protection Committee, Joseph Rocky Palakkal, Chairman of the Munambam Land Protection Committee, and protest convenor Joseph Benny Kuruppassery.

During the event, special honors were bestowed on individuals whose contributions to the cause have been particularly noteworthy. Bishop Dr. Ambrose Varghese Ittithara was recognized for his steadfast participation in the protest movement, while Ambadi Shibu Kai Thakat, a differently-abled youth, was acknowledged for designing impactful posters that energized and unified the protest campaign.

Concluding his address, Bishop Puthenveetil reiterated that the people of Munambam deserve not only attention but concrete action. “Their patience should not be mistaken for weakness,” he said. “It is the moral duty of those in power to right this injustice. Let justice not be another broken promise.” He urged the faithful, civil society, and policymakers to remain united in upholding the rights and dignity of the Munambam community.