Panathur: The Catholic Congress (AKCC) commenced its Rights Protection Journey in Panathur, Kasaragod, aiming to address pressing issues such as the implementation of the Justice J.B. Koshy Commission report, resolving wildlife and land disputes, and finding solutions to the ongoing collapse in agricultural product prices. The journey began from St. Mary’s Church and was marked by the active participation of prominent church leaders and community representatives.
As the procession reached the town center, it was joined by Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplani and Bishop Mar Remigius Inchananiyil, who handed the flag to the procession captain and Catholic Congress Global President Prof. Rajeev Kochuparambil, symbolizing the formal launch of the campaign. The event also featured a general meeting inaugurated by Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplani, emphasizing the church’s commitment to advocating for legitimate community needs while respecting the rights of other communities.
During his address, Archbishop Pamplany highlighted the courage and dedication of church leaders, noting that many are willing to face imprisonment for defending the rights of their communities. He expressed concern over the challenges faced by clergy in other regions of India, pointing out that priests in North India face threats even when performing their religious duties publicly. “Even in Karnataka, it has become increasingly difficult to preach and spread religion freely,” he said, underlining the urgency of the rights protection initiative.
Bishop Mar Remigius Inchananiyil, Kottayam Archdiocese Vicar General Mon Thomas Animoottil, Catholic Congress Global Director Fr. Dr. Philip Kaviyil, General Secretary Dr. Josukutty Ozhukayil, Thalassery Archdiocese President Philip Veliyath, and several other leaders, including former global president Biju Parayanilam, vice presidents Prof. K.M. Francis and Tresa Liz Sebastian, and treasurer Tony Joseph Punchakunnel, addressed the gathering, reinforcing the call for justice, community welfare, and government accountability.
Archbishop Pamplany specifically criticized the devaluation of societal and moral values, pointing to the struggle to secure rightful salaries for teachers as evidence of systemic neglect. He acknowledged two positive measures by the Pinarayi government: the acceptance of the church-backed demands regarding teachers’ payments despite opposition, and the amendment of the Wildlife Act, which, although challenging to implement fully, represents a step in the right direction.
The launch of the AKCC Rights Protection Journey underscores the organization’s determination to advocate for community rights through peaceful, organized, and faith-driven action. With participation from clergy, educators, and lay leaders, the initiative seeks to amplify the voices of marginalized groups and ensure that justice, education, and sustainable livelihood concerns are addressed at both the state and national levels.
The quest to safeguard rights moves forward, carried by the devotion and blessings of countless hearts.
Deepest gratitude to Panathur: The mission to uphold and defend rights marches on…
Journey to Tomapuram…welcomed with vibrant enthusiasm…