Thalassery: The Archdiocese of Thalassery has strongly condemned the derogatory remarks made by CPM State Secretary M.V. Govindan against Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany. The Archdiocese stated that Govindan’s stance mirrors that of fascist forces, revealing another face of fascism that hides behind the notion that bishops in the Catholic Church can only speak after securing permission from the A.K.G. Centre.

The Archdiocese clarified that the interpretation suggesting Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany changed his position regarding the Chhattisgarh issue, particularly concerning the central government and Sangh Parivar organizations’ unconstitutional stands, is incorrect. The Archbishop’s request for intervention from the central government in the Chhattisgarh matter was understood and appreciated by the church leadership, and the central government’s action on it does not signify any change in his stance.

Archbishop Pamplany has always upheld a thoughtful position aimed at avoiding communal polarization. He has consistently opposed any government actions that target minorities. The Archdiocese expressed deep regret that a political party state secretary like the CPM leader would spread such misleading statements, calling it completely deplorable.

While the Archdiocese had previously ignored similar statements by some youth organization leaders seeking cheap publicity, the fact that the party’s top leader himself has taken a stand supporting such views is highly condemnable.

Observers following Govindan’s statements understand that opportunism is his hallmark. The people of Kerala have witnessed that Govindan lacks any consistent historical stance lasting even a week. He has repeatedly made statements attacking his own party leaders and the Chief Minister, evidencing his opportunistic nature.

Archbishop Pamplany had praised the Chief Minister’s letter demanding prompt intervention from the central government on the Chhattisgarh issue. It was this that Govindan has opportunistically portrayed in a negative light. The Archbishop also appreciated interventions made by state and national Congress leaders on the issue, including those by Left leaders such as MP John Brittas in Parliament. Is Govindan implying all these are acts of opportunism?

The Archdiocese warns Govindan not to use his own character flaws as a measure to judge others.