Kochi: The Catholic Congress has raised sharp criticism against governments that fail to uphold justice and equality, warning that the fear of liberation movements stems from the continued denial of justice to the people. Speaking at Angamaly, Catholic Congress Global President Rajiv Kochuparambil said that the historic Liberation Struggle was a natural outpouring of the people's demand for justice and freedom, and that the same spirit of resistance remains alive whenever citizens are denied their rights.
Rajiv Kochuparambil was addressing the gathering after laying wreaths at the tomb of the Liberation Struggle martyrs in Angamaly, marking the commencement of the Catholic Congress’ Rights Protection Tour in Ernakulam district. The event commemorated those who stood for justice and truth during one of Kerala’s most defining political movements, while also reflecting on the contemporary challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
He emphasized that governments that ignore or suppress people’s grievances are inevitably fearful of liberation struggles, as they symbolize the awakening of public conscience. “When justice is denied, the struggle becomes inevitable. The Liberation Struggle was not a revolt born out of politics, but a people’s movement seeking dignity, equality, and fairness,” he said.
Drawing parallels to modern-day injustices, Kochuparambil highlighted the plight of farmers burdened by debt, families torn apart by attacks from wild animals and stray dogs, and agricultural communities devastated by falling crop prices and discriminatory policies. “These are not isolated incidents but reflections of a systemic failure to protect the weak and ensure justice,” he noted.
The Catholic Congress leader also pointed to the non-release of the JB Koshy Commission report and bias in minority scholarship allocations as recent examples of administrative injustice. Such actions, he said, deepen public distrust and perpetuate a sense of alienation among marginalized sections.
“The essence of governance lies in safeguarding every citizen’s right to live with dignity,” Kochuparambil added, warning that societies that turn a blind eye to the suffering of their people risk sowing the seeds of unrest.
The Rights Protection Tour initiated by the Catholic Congress seeks to create awareness about social injustices, defend constitutional values, and advocate for policy reforms that prioritize human dignity and equal opportunity. The tour, which began in Ernakulam, will extend to various districts in the coming weeks, carrying the message that the struggle for justice and rights is not a relic of history but an ongoing moral and civic duty.