The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) on Monday condemned Kerala Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan for his remarks against senior Christian priests who attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Christmas programme.

The KCBC spokesperson, Fr Jacob Palackappilly, criticised Cheriyan’s remarks, saying persons in high positions should refrain from making such statements.

Palackappilly also mocked Cheriyan and a few other Left leaders, and accused them of using disrespectful language against Christian priests during Christmas celebrations. Taking dig at them, he said that they seem to have a “dictionary” only to address higher-ups in society.

Responding to Cheriyan’s remarks that priests did not discuss the Manipur violence issue with PM Modi during the Christmas programme, the KCBC spokesperson said that it is not the role of political parties to dictate the political stance of Christians.

Further, Palackappilly questioned the ministers’ motive behind linking the Christian community’s participation in PM Modi’s event to a specific political affiliation. He said that the Christmas programme was a reception organised by the PM to discuss the services provided by Christians in the country.

The Kerala Minister had mocked the bishops who had attended the PM’s programme, saying they prioritised enjoying the grape wine and cake over addressing the Manipur violence issue. The KCBC spokesperson defended the priests, stating that the event focused on discussing the community’s contributions to the country.

During the Christmas event, Modi said that India “proudly acknowledges” the contribution of the Christian community – from its role in India’s freedom struggle to its “active participation” in “social service”. The PM also said that the Christian community has been at forefront in serving poor and deprived.