Kannur: A day after Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany’s comments on martyrs created controversy, the Thalassery Archdiocese has come out to justify the priest and his speech.
“Some people with vested interests have misinterpreted the Archbishop’s speech. The culture of the Church is a culture that always respects martyrs. Several cases of martyrdom can also be observed in the political spheres. However, some people are victims of vested interests. The bishop encouraged us not to simulate these people,” the archdiocese explained in a statement issued on Monday.
While addressing the KCYM youth day celebration in Kannur on Saturday, the archbishop said that most of the political martyrs are those who were killed for creating unnecessary ruckus with the people or those who died since bridges while being chased by the police. He went on to say that the apostles were not like political martyrs.
“The apostles are those who sacrificed their lives for the truth and the well-being of the world. These 12 apostles died martyrs. They are not like the political martyrs who were shot after engaging in unnecessary fights. Some have slipped off the bridges while fleeing from the police,” Pamplany had said.
Both CPM and Congress leaders criticized Bishop Pamplany for his speech.
Earlier on March 19, Pamplany had said that the BJP-led government at the Center could enjoy more support if it raises the purchase price of rubber to Rs 300 per kg, triggering a major political storm.
