New Delhi: Leaders of the Syro Malabar Church are set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss various matters concerning the Christian community in India. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Prime Minister’s residence in New Delhi at 3 p.m.

Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil, head of the Syro Malabar Church, and Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara of Faridabad will lead the delegation. According to Church sources, the bishops are expected to share concerns faced by the Christian community, especially regarding their social and educational work in different parts of the country.

The leaders are also likely to request Prime Minister Modi to extend an invitation to the Pope for a visit to India. Such a visit, they believe, would promote interfaith harmony and strengthen the bonds between the Catholic Church and the Indian government.

The Syro Malabar Church, one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches, has maintained a tradition of open dialogue with the central government. A previous meeting between Archbishop Raphael Thattil and the Prime Minister in 2024 was described as a friendly and respectful exchange.

Church representatives have often voiced concerns about restrictions and challenges faced by Christian institutions in some northern states. They hope that the upcoming meeting will help bring greater understanding and cooperation between Church leaders and the government.

The discussion is also expected to cover broader topics such as the role of Christian organizations in education, healthcare, and community service. Both sides are expected to emphasize peace, mutual respect, and national unity.

The meeting comes at a time when Church leaders are encouraging dialogue to resolve internal and external challenges. The Syro Malabar Church hopes that this interaction with the Prime Minister will open a new chapter of collaboration for the welfare of the community and the nation.