Kerala Catholic vicar relieved from duties after he joins BJP

Idukki: A 74-year-old Christian priest, Father Kuriakose Mattam, is facing disciplinary action for joining the BJP a move deemed a violation of Canon Law. The priest, who is set to retire in a few months, made the decision amidst ongoing criticism from the Catholic church directed at the BJP regarding the recent Manipur violence.

A spokesperson for the church, citing Canon Law restrictions, said that the laws prohibit priests from active participation in political parties. The church said Fr Mattom has been temporarily relieved of parish duties at the Mankuva St Thomas church near Adimali.

In response to this, Father Kuriakose Mattam defended his decision, stating that he joined the BJP after carefully observing the current situation in the country. In a video shared on social media, the priest explained, "I follow contemporary issues. I don't find any reason not to join the BJP. I have friendships with many BJP workers. Today I received a membership. I have read from the newspapers and have an understanding of the BJP in the country."

The incident comes at a time when the BJP has been under scrutiny for its handling of the Manipur violence, with the Catholic church actively criticizing the party's stance. BJP’s Idukki district president K S Aji, in his Facebook post, suggested that the priest's entry into the BJP serves as a response to those who have been critical of the party's actions in Manipur.