Kannur: Thalassery diocese archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany has asked why the so-called "double-engine remains off”. It may be noted that double-engine or double-engine government is a term widely used by BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi to denote the efficiency of Centre-state governments led by the party. Pamplany’s remarks subtly target the BJP-led union government and its Manipur state government. Because the remarks were made during his speech in a  protest event organised by Kerala Catholic Church at Chemperi over the Manipur issue.

Pamplany said he is doubtful whether those controlling the Army are "siding with the oppressors and not the oppressed”. He claimed that Christians are being targeted in Manipur and the issue is not the clash between tribal groups. He called out politicisation of the matter and slammed political parties for taking the opportunity over the issue. 

Pamplany recently made headlines with a pro-BJP statement. He had said that the rubber growers would help the BJP to open its account in Kerala if the rubber price was increased to Rs 300. The remarks even invited flak from the faithful and many mocked him by citing the plight of Christians in Manipur. The new development comes at this juncture.