Kochi: The Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) has expressed its full support for the Kerala government's efforts to eliminate drug abuse and has called for urgent action on a range of social and economic issues affecting people across the state.
The decisions were announced after the annual meeting of the KCBC, held from June 2 to 4 at the Pastoral Orientation Centre in Palarivattom, Kochi. The meeting brought together bishops from the Syro Malabar, Syro Malankara and Latin Catholic Churches in Kerala under the leadership of KCBC President Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal.
In its statement, the council welcomed the newly elected United Democratic Front government led by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan and expressed hope that the administration would work for the welfare of all sections of society. The bishops particularly appreciated the government's decision to create a separate department for senior citizens and said such initiatives show concern for vulnerable groups.
A major focus of the meeting was the growing problem of drug abuse and alcohol addiction. The bishops strongly supported the government's recently launched anti narcotics campaign known as Operation Toofan. They described the initiative as a timely intervention against a social menace that is increasingly affecting young people and families across Kerala.
The KCBC assured the government that Catholic schools, colleges, educational institutions and Church organisations would fully cooperate with efforts aimed at preventing substance abuse. Church leaders said the fight against drugs cannot be left to law enforcement agencies alone and requires the participation of families, educational institutions, religious organisations and the wider community.
The council has consistently voiced concern about the social impact of alcohol and drug addiction. Church leaders believe that stronger awareness programmes, preventive measures and rehabilitation services are necessary to protect future generations from the dangers of addiction.
The bishops also reviewed the progress of the KCBC rehabilitation project for families affected by the landslide disasters in Wayanad and Vilangad. According to the council, the first phase of the project has successfully completed 80 houses for families who lost their homes. Work is continuing on the second phase, which aims to construct a total of 180 houses.
The council thanked dioceses, religious congregations, organisations and individuals in India and abroad who contributed generously to the rehabilitation effort.
Another important issue discussed during the meeting was the implementation of the recommendations of the Justice J. B. Koshy Commission. The bishops noted that the Christian community had placed considerable hope in the commission's findings and urged the new government to take meaningful steps to implement its recommendations without further delay.
The KCBC also reiterated its support for the people of Munambam who continue to seek restoration of their land and revenue rights. The council expressed confidence that the new government would honour its commitments and work towards a fair resolution of the issue.
The bishops raised concerns about labour disputes and recurring strikes in Catholic hospitals. They warned that excessive financial demands could increase treatment costs and place additional burdens on ordinary patients. The council appealed to the government to finalise pending wage revision decisions and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.
Human wildlife conflict was another major concern discussed during the meeting. The bishops called for stronger government action to protect people living in forest and hill regions who face increasing threats from wild animals. They urged authorities to prioritise the safety of human lives and property while addressing environmental concerns.
The council also highlighted the difficulties faced by coastal communities and fishing families who struggle with poverty, coastal erosion and seasonal hardships. It called for long term solutions to ensure their safety and economic security.
Farmers and residents of Kerala's high range regions were also remembered during the discussions. The bishops said agriculture continues to face serious challenges and urged the government to introduce policies that would revive the sector and support farming communities.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by the Catholic Church in Kerala to work alongside government agencies and civil society organisations in addressing the state's pressing social challenges and promoting the welfare of all people.