Kochi: The ongoing hunger strike by the Munambam Bhoosamrakshana Samiti, which has now stretched to 328 consecutive days, is set to witness a significant moment of solidarity today as Kottapuram Bishop Dr. Ambrose Puthenveetil visits the protest site. His arrival, scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Velankanni Mata Church grounds in Munambam, is expected to give renewed moral strength to the 610 families fighting for their denied revenue rights.
The protest, which began on October 13, 2024, has been marked by extraordinary perseverance. Families affected by the revenue rights issue have braved seasonal hardships, festivals, and even personal tragedies to keep the strike alive, framing their struggle as a battle for dignity, justice, and rightful recognition. On Thiruvonam Day, traditionally associated with abundance and community bonding in Kerala, the protesters are choosing resistance and sacrifice to highlight their plight.
Community solidarity has been a defining feature of the movement. Today’s gathering will be addressed not only by Bishop Puthenveetil but also by prominent leaders across social and religious groups. Kottapuram Diocese Vicar General Mon. Rocky Robby Kalathil, SNDP Vypin Union President T.G. Vijayan, Union Secretary T.B. Joshi, and SNDP Yogam Board Member K.P. Gopalakrishnan are among the dignitaries expected. Adding further weight to the gathering will be Kudumbami Seva Samajam State Vice President Jayaprasad Kadamakudy, KLCA State President Adv. Sheri J. Thomas, and KLCA Diocese President Anil Kunnathur, ensuring representation from diverse community fronts.
The presence of Bishop Puthenveetil is being seen as both pastoral and political. As a spiritual leader, his act of standing with the families underscores the Church’s commitment to social justice. Observers note that his intervention at this stage of the strike could amplify pressure on the authorities to address the demands that have been simmering for nearly a year.
The Velankanni Mata Church grounds, where the strike began and continues, have transformed into a space of resilience and community. Over the past 11 months, it has drawn religious leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens who believe that the cause of the Munambam families is emblematic of larger struggles for land rights and recognition across Kerala.
With today marking Day 328, the arrival of the Bishop is expected to breathe new momentum into the agitation. For the protesting families, it is more than a gesture it is a sign that their voices are being heard beyond the protest tents, resonating across parishes, unions, and civil society.