THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala State Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan apologized for his remarks insulting Christian community leaders who attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Christmas day feast. Saji Cheriyan mentioned withdrawing the controversial statement after facing severe backlash from the Christian community.
Following criticism from BJP leaders and the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC), Saji Cherian extended apology and retracted his controversial remarks. The Latin Catholic Council also strongly criticized Saji Cheriyan.
The BJP Minority Morcha staged a protest against Saji Cheriyan in his constituency, Chengannur, demanding his resignation. Members also burned an effigy of Saji Cheriyan during the protest.
Amid backlash from various quarters, Saji Cheriyan took a stand by retracting his statements and expressing regret. He clarified that his apology wasn’t due to any pressure from his party.
Responding to Saji Cheriyan’s statement, KCBC clarified that political parties shouldn’t dictate which political affiliations Christians should adopt and support.
Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan has said that Saji Cheriyan’s remark on Catholic priests was “an insult to Kerala society”.
Saji Cheriyan insulted the Bishops who attended the Christmas feast hosted by the Prime Minister, stating that the Bishops got goosebumps when they drank grape wine and ate cake during the event. This statement has now been withdrawn after facing severe backlash from several corners.
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