Thalassery (Kerala): Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany has taken a neutral stand on the BJP. He stated that he does not hold any position either in favour of or against anyone, and added that the fact that the sisters in Chhattisgarh have been granted bail is a welcome development.

“The recent positions I’ve taken clearly show that I’m not hesitant to criticise the BJP. A thorn will always be called a thorn. A wrong will always be called out as wrong. However, I do not believe in constantly attacking any political party with a specific agenda,” the Archbishop said.

He added, “If a mistake has occurred, we acknowledge the willingness shown to correct it. The responses from the Church’s side are meant to encourage those responsible to ensure such incidents do not happen again. The protests held for securing bail are now coming to an end. The case is proceeding in the right direction and legal action from the Church’s side will continue to ensure that justice is served.”

Archbishop Pamplany also noted that many states have laws prohibiting religious conversions. The idea of “forced conversion” in these laws is often interpreted in a distorted way by mobs, which he said is a major crisis the Church is currently facing. He emphasised the need for broader discussions and effective solutions on this matter.