Kochi: The Kerala Regional Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) has strongly condemned the Education Minister’s remarks regarding the uniform controversy at St. Rita’s School, Palluruthy, terming them “irresponsible, unlawful, and politically motivated.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, Church leaders accused the Minister of overstepping his authority and attempting to interfere in a matter that has already been settled by the Kerala High Court. The court had earlier ruled in favor of the school management, affirming its right to enforce a uniform dress code and directing the police to ensure adequate protection for the institution.
“The Minister’s remarks are in direct contradiction to the High Court’s verdict and only serve to create unnecessary tension,” the statement read. The KRLCC alleged that the Minister’s intervention threatens to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere around the school and embolden communal elements seeking to exploit the issue for political gain.
KRLCC Vice President Joseph Jude and General Secretary Fr. Jiju George Arakathara jointly criticized what they described as the government’s persistent encroachment on the rights of Christian minority institutions in Kerala. “It is deeply concerning that the government, instead of upholding the rule of law, continues to play into the hands of divisive forces,” they said.
The Church leaders called upon the state government to act responsibly and refrain from aligning with groups that attempt to communalize educational spaces. “Political parties that exploit such issues for electoral advantage are pushing Kerala toward discord,” the statement warned.
Reaffirming their solidarity with St. Rita’s School management, the KRLCC urged authorities to respect judicial decisions and safeguard the autonomy of minority-run educational institutions, emphasizing that equality in school uniforms is a symbol of unity, not division.