KOCHI: 21 priests who have been on strike at the Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese headquarters since Thursday were forcefully removed by the police early yesterday. Following this, believers turned into two groups and protested, which eventually resulted in a conflict that lasted for hours. Six priests who led the strike were suspended by the Synod. Later in the evening, Archbishop Joseph Pamplany was appointed as the administrator of the Archdiocese, as part of reconciliation efforts.

The priests, who had been on strike at the Bishop's House near the High Court, were removed by the police at 5 AM yesterday after the Archdiocese filed a complaint. When the priests refused to leave, they were forcibly relocated to the premises of St. Mary's Cathedral. The priests alleged that those, including 78-year-old Father Sebastian Thalian, were dragged during the process.

Supporters of the protesting priests attempted to stop the police. Subsequently, those supporting the Church leadership arrived, and the situation escalated into a conflict between the two groups. The police intervened to prevent further conflict. No cases have been filed against anyone.

Later in the evening, the believers tried to enter the Bishop’s House. The police allowed only the priests to enter. To resolve the dispute, ADM Asha C Abraham held talks with the priests. Today, the District Collector NSK Umesh will hold discussions with the protesters.

Six priests suspended
The strike was led by priests who are supporting the Janabhimukha Kurbana, which has been going on for decades. The six priests who led the protest—Father Sebastian Thalian, Father Rajan Punnaykkal, Father Jerry Njaaliyathu, Father Sunny Kalappuraykal, Father Paul Chittinappally, and Father Alex Kareemadom—were suspended from church services. 15 others were issued show-cause notices. They will face action if they fail to respond within seven days.

Hope in Pamplany
Pope Francis appointed Bishop Joseph Pamplany of the Thalassery Archdiocese as the Apostolic Administrator of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese. This decision followed the resignation of Bishop Bosco Puthur. Bishop Bosco was appointed in December 2023.

Almaya Munnettam, which supports the priests, welcomed the appointment of Archbishop Pamplany. The office bearers of the Almaya Munnettam expressed hope that Bishop Pamplany, who is familiar with the issues in the Archdiocese, will be able to restore peace.