Kochi: The Kerala Regional Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) has strongly criticized the state government for what it termed as repeated encroachments on the constitutional rights of Christian minorities. In a statement released on Thursday, KRLCC condemned the government’s stance on the recent controversy surrounding the uniform policy at St. Rita’s School in Palluruthy, calling the Education Minister’s remarks “irresponsible, unlawful, and unacceptable.”
KRLCC leaders asserted that the minister’s intervention in a matter already settled by the Kerala High Court undermines judicial authority and disrupts communal harmony. “The High Court has explicitly stated that school managements have the right to make and implement decisions on matters such as uniforms, within the legal framework, and has instructed the police to ensure protection to the institution,” said KRLCC Vice President Joseph Jude and General Secretary Rev. Dr. Jiju George Arakathara in a joint statement.
The Council expressed concern that the minister’s comments could reignite a resolved issue, creating unnecessary tension in the locality and affecting the smooth functioning of the institution. “Reopening a settled matter will not only disturb the peaceful atmosphere but also embolden groups attempting to politicize educational administration,” the statement noted.
KRLCC also warned against the increasing tendency of political parties to exploit minority-related matters for electoral advantage. “The agendas of parties that use such sensitive issues for political gain are dangerous and divisive. Such actions threaten the secular and democratic fabric of Kerala,” the Council said.
The organization reiterated that minority-run educational institutions enjoy constitutional autonomy in administrative matters under Articles 29 and 30 of the Indian Constitution. Any government interference in this regard, they said, violates fundamental rights and the principles of religious freedom.
KRLCC leaders called on the government to uphold judicial directives and respect the independence of minority institutions. “Attempts to override established legal norms erode public trust and endanger Kerala’s long tradition of coexistence and educational excellence,” the statement concluded.
The controversy at St. Rita’s School had earlier been settled through legal means, with the High Court affirming the management’s authority to decide uniform policies. The Council emphasized that the issue should have remained closed, urging the government to refrain from further actions that could jeopardize peace and constitutional order.