Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the Catholicos and Malankara Metropolitan of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, here on Sunday called upon the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government to respond compassionately to the demands of the Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) protesting in front of the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram.
Speaking after leading the Easter service at his home parish, St. Peter’s Church in Vazhoor, the Catholicos said the ASHAs are homemakers who are seeking only a modest increase in their wages, even as little as ₹100. “The government’s apathy towards their plea must be reconsidered,’‘ he said.
The Catholicos expressed concern for high-range farmers and coastal communities in the State and also warned of increasing instances that could potentially spark religious discord in Kerala. He also called upon the government to take the lead in resolving the long-standing land related issues in the coastal regions.
‘Mutual love’
Regarding the Malankara Church dispute, the Catholicos hopes that peace could once again be restored through mutual love and understanding. “Just as reconciliation was achieved in the past, the Church must strive again for unity,” he said.
On the occasion, the Catholicos also voiced his concern over the rising number of suicides in Kerala. “It is heart-breaking to hear of parents ending their lives along with their children. In times of crisis, we must reach out to those in despair and bring them back to life with hope,” he said.
Published – April 20, 2025 07:30 pm IST