KOTTAYAM: In a joint press conference by Church of South India (CSI) madhya Kerala diocese bishop Malayil Sabu Koshy Cherian and Kerala Muslim Youth Federation president and imam of Thazhathangady Juma Masjid here Shamsuddin Mannani Ilavupalam, urged the society to be alert to ensure that the peaceful atmosphere in the state is not shattered.
The CSI bishop said that it is the state government that will have to examine whether there is ‘love’ and ‘narcotic’ jihad. The imam said that the war cry during the protest march of Muslim organisations in Pala should have been avoided.
Both religious leaders decided to hold a joint press meet at the headquarters of the CSI church here on Wednesday in the wake of the protests and social media campaigns following the statements of Pala bishop Mar Joseph Kallarangatt on love and narcotic jihad.
The CSI bishop, who said that all bad tendencies have to be opposed, however, refused to comment on the references made by the Pala bishop. He said that everybody has the freedom to express their views. “But we should be alert about those who make use of situations. It is the responsibility of the government to find out whether there is narcotic jihad.”
He also said that the peaceful situation in the state should not be ruined in the name of a statement. The bishop also urged the state government to take initiative for talks to resolve the current crisis. Both the leaders said that by holding a joint press conference they aimed at maintaining peace in society.
Police hold peace meet in Pala
In the wake of protests being held in Pala after Pala bishop’s ‘narcotic jihad’ reference, police held a peace meeting in the region on Wednesday.
Leaders of various religions and communities from Pala and Erattupetta took part in the meeting convened by Pala DSP Shaju Jose. Those who participated in the meeting said that no religious organisations had any role in the protest programmes held in Pala in the last few days. The meeting also condemned the social media propaganda, which is ruining the peaceful atmosphere in the state. Police informed that strict action will be taken against those who indulge in such things.
The DSP said that the police cyber wing will investigate and action will be taken against those behind false propaganda about a food processing unit in Erattupetta. He said that WhatsApp groups where communal comments or references are made will also be brought under the purview of the investigation.
