Syro-Malabar Church Supports BJP Leader PC George’s Comments on Love Jihad and Drug Trafficking

The Syro-Malabar Church in Kerala has expressed support for BJP leader PC George following his controversial remarks on “love jihad.” The Church’s Public Affairs Commission defended George, stating that his comments on “drug trafficking, love traps, and terrorist activities” at a conference in Pala were based on facts. The commission urged both central and state governments to conduct a high-level probe into the issues he raised while ensuring the privacy and security of the affected families.

The Church condemned efforts to interpret George’s statements in a religious context, calling such attempts “regrettable.” It also highlighted concerns over rising drug abuse and extremist activities, citing recent discoveries of explosives and weapons in Kerala. The statement came after Youth Congress and IUML Youth League activists lodged police complaints against George for his speech in Pala. UDF MLA AKM Ashraf raised the issue in the Kerala Assembly, questioning the government’s inaction against him.

George, currently out on bail in a hate speech case, stirred controversy by urging Christian families to marry off their daughters by 24, citing “love jihad” as a threat. His remarks were made at a conference led by Bishop Joseph Kallarangatt and the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) Temperance Commission. The term “love jihad” has been widely used by BJP and right-wing groups to allege that Muslim men target Hindu women for conversion through marriage. However, in 2020, the Centre clarified that no case of “love jihad” had been reported by any central agency.

George, a former MLA, was recently arrested for delivering a hate speech against a minority community during a TV debate. He was granted bail on February 28. The Syro-Malabar Church’s support for George underscores the complex interplay between religious institutions and political discourse in Kerala, where issues of identity, security, and community welfare often intersect. As the situation unfolds, the Church’s stance reflects its commitment to addressing societal concerns while navigating the delicate balance between faith and public policy.

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