BJP welcomes KCBC's call to youth to join mainstream political parties

The Hindu

08-07-2025

Giving a push to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s efforts to reach out to the influential minority community in Kerala ahead of the local body and Assembly elections, the BJP State leadership has welcomed the Kerala Catholic Bishops Council's call to the youth to join mainstream political parties.
State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has officially welcomed the KCBC's appeal, stating that it aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision.
'Appreciate the call from KCBC to Christian youth to actively engage in public life and serve society. @BJP4Keralam warmly welcomes youth aspiring to enter politics and contribute to nation-building. This aligns with PM @narendramodi's vision of one lakh talented youth leading a 'politics of performance.' #VikasitaKeralam needs visionary young leaders committed to development for all,' says a social media post of Mr. Chandrasekhar.
The KCBC issued a circular on July 6, Church's Youth Day, indicating that Christian youngsters are reluctant to engage in active politics and urged them to join politics.
The circular, issued by KCBC Youth Commission chairperson Christudas R. and vice-chairpersons Mar Joseph Pandarasseril and Mathews Mar Policorpos, was read in all parishes under the Syro Malabar, Syro Malankara, and Latin rite churches during the Mass on Sunday.
'At present, the political situation is extremely chaotic and confusing, and it is not advisable for Christian youth having leadership skills and critical thinking abilities to distance themselves from mainstream politics. A new generation with knowledge and talent should enter mainstream politics to solve the issues facing our society. Catholic youth organisations should train young women and men with leadership qualities and bring them into the mainstream. Qualified youths must come forward for this mission, recognising it as essential for society, particularly the Christian community,' read the circular.
Meanwhile, KCBC spokesperson Fr. Thomas Tharayil clarified that the Church never directed youth to join any specific political party. 'Joining a political party is a personal decision,' he said.
'The Church does not treat any political party as untouchable. What we called for is for the youth to engage in nation-building by participating in the political process — rather than aligning with anti-political movements,' said Fr. Tharayil.