Kozhikode: A powerful wave of protest surged through the heart of Kozhikode city as Christian organizations and faithful united to voice their strong condemnation of the recent violence and unjust detention of nuns in Chhattisgarh. The protest rally, marked by fervent chants for justice and constitutional rights, was spearheaded by the Kozhikode Archdiocese, Thamarassery Diocese, Kerala Council of Churches (KCC), Kozhikode Ecumenical Forum, and the Kerala Latin Catholic Association (KLCA).
Hundreds of priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful marched with placards and slogans echoing, “Justice should be given to minorities equally,” sending a clear message of solidarity against the alleged harassment and arrests of Sister Preethi Mary and Sister Vandana Francis. The protest highlighted growing concerns within the Christian community over the safety of missionaries and the rise of religiously motivated violence.
Inaugurating the protest at St. Joseph’s Church in the city, Kozhikode Archdiocesan Vicar General Monsignor Jenson Puthenveetil issued a scathing critique of the systemic injustices faced by minorities. “We are not merely seeking sympathy, but justice rooted in the Constitution,” he declared. “Those entrusted with protecting the law are increasingly the ones violating it.”
The rally began with a welcome address by Fr. Jerome Chinganthara, Vicar of Ferona Parish. Parish priest Fr. Renee Francis officially flagged off the march, which passed through prominent city junctions, including Kannur Road Junction and Christian College Cross Road, before culminating back at the church grounds in a solemn public meeting.
KLCA State President Adv. Sherry J. Thomas delivered the keynote address, warning that minority communities must remain vigilant. “Missionaries serve humanity without expecting anything in return. Their sacrifices must be honoured, not criminalised,” he said.
Prominent religious leaders including Fr. James (Kerala Council of Churches), Sr. Alma (Apostolic Carmel Congregation), Fr. Bobby Peter (Malankara Orthodox Church), and Biju Josy (KLCA State General Secretary) joined in solidarity, emphasizing unity across Christian denominations. The closing vote of thanks was delivered by Binu Edward, President of the KLCA Kozhikode Diocese.
The event was not merely a display of resistance but a declaration that the Christian community in Kerala will not remain silent in the face of religious discrimination, and will stand united in defense of its faithful across the nation.