The Catholic Congress has called on the government to officially declare July 3 -the feast day of St. Thomas the Apostle -as a public holiday, recognizing its significance for the Christian community.

The demand was raised during the Kaduruthy regional conference of the Catholic Congress, held at St. Mary's Church, Mannar. The event was inaugurated by parish vicar Rev. Fr. Syriac Kochu Kaippettiyil.

Presiding over the meeting was regional president Rajesh James Kottayil. The keynote address was delivered by diocesan president Emmanuel Nidheeri. Diocesan general secretary  Jose Vattukulam, regional secretary George Mankuzhikkari, Jerry Joseph Panackal, and Manoj Kadavantekala were also present and spoke at the event.