The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 2 April 2025, by the Central Government, with a vote scheduled to take place soon. While various Muslim organizations and leaders have strongly opposed the bill, the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) has expressed its support and urged MPs to vote in favor of the legislation.
In a press release dated 29 March 2025, KCBC called for amendments to what it described as the “unconstitutional and unjust provisions” of the existing Waqf Act.
This report covers 24 significant incidents between 2009 and 2025, categorized into four sections as below where the Kerala Church has come out against the Waqf and its atrocities and supported the Amendment Bill while also raising concerns on Love Jihad.
- Waqf claims on Christian/Church land
- Support from church councils and Christian groups for the Waqf Bill
- Church statements and views on love jihad
- Christian women as victims of love jihad
- Church statements and views on PFI
Waqf Claim On Land Owned By Christians/Church
#1 Munambam
Over 600 families in Munambam, Kerala, are facing displacement due to the Waqf Board’s claim on their land, despite ownership records dating back to 1989. The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) and the Syro-Malabar Public Affairs Commission (SMPAC) have urged the Union government to address the issue through amendments to the Waqf Act. The dispute stems from a 1902 lease of 404 acres by the King of Travancore to a private individual, later gifted to Farook College in 1950. However, the word “Waqf” was mistakenly included in the documents. In 2019, the Waqf Board asserted ownership, despite the 2013 Waqf Act mandating claims within three years. Residents, including people of various religious backgrounds, now face eviction without due legal process. KCBC and SMPAC have petitioned Parliament, demanding a fair resolution and protection of citizens’ property rights.
#2 Cherai
In February 2023, the Kerala High Court’s Division Bench upheld an interim order preventing the issuance of revenue records and documents to alleged encroachers of 404.76 acres of Waqf land in Cherai. The case originated from an appeal by the Kerala Waqf Conservation Vedi, challenging an October 2022, order by the Kochi Tax Tehsildar allowing tax collection from those occupying the land. Initially, a single bench had ordered a status quo but later ruled there were no obstacles to issuing revenue records and collecting tax. The petitioners argued that the land, registered as Waqf property in 1950, was illegally transferred against its intended purpose and that a court had previously ordered its recovery. The Division Bench’s decision effectively halts any further transfer of documents related to the disputed land, reinforcing the stance that Waqf land cannot be transferred.
Church Support For Waqf Amendment Bill
#3 Church of Bharat Supports Waqf Act Amendment
On 1 April 2025, the Church of Bharat welcomed the removal of certain provisions from the existing Waqf Act and expressed support for the amendment bill. It described the previous provisions as inhuman and contrary to the nation’s secular principles. The council urged the government to expedite the passage of the bill to resolve longstanding disputes, particularly in Munambam.
#4 CBCI Flags Kerala Land Disputes, Supports Waqf Act Changes
On 31 March 2025, the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) endorsed the proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, stating that some of the existing provisions contradicted the Constitution and secular values. CBCI urged political parties to take an unbiased stance and highlighted the Kerala Waqf Board’s use of current laws to declare over 600 ancestral properties in Munambam as Waqf land. It stressed the need to amend contradictory laws while ensuring the protection of minority rights.
#5 KCBC Calls on Kerala MPs to Back Waqf Bill
On 29 March 2025, the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) appealed to Kerala MPs to support the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, citing the grievances of over 600 Christian families in Munambam. These families have been affected by the wrongful claim of 404 acres of ancestral land as Waqf property. KCBC called for repealing unjust provisions that enable such encroachments. Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, stated that if circumstances allow, they may also arrange meetings with MPs to discuss the issue directly.
#6 KCBC Leaders Advocate for Waqf Act Amendment
In a press release, KCBC President Cardinal Cleemis Catholica Bava, Vice-President Bishop Pauly Kannukkattan, and General Secretary Bishop Alex Vadakkumattam urged Kerala MPs to support amendments to the “objectionable” parts of the Waqf Act. They emphasized the need to rectify legal provisions that have led to property disputes and urged lawmakers to take a stand in favor of protecting citizens’ rights.
What Is The Church Saying With Respect To Love Jihad?
#1 Church Coins The Term Love Jihad
The term “Love Jihad” was first used in 2009 by the Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC), claiming that Christian women were being lured into marriages by Muslim men and converted to Islam. This allegation, though never proven, gained traction and led to communal tensions. Between 2006 and 2012, official figures recorded 7,713 conversions to Islam in Kerala, including 2,667 young women (2,195 Hindus and 492 Christians). However, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy stated there was no evidence of forced conversions.
Despite police investigations in Kerala and Karnataka allegedly finding no proof of an organized “Love Jihad” network, the narrative persisted, influencing political discourse and interfaith relations. Hindu and Christian groups demanded inquiries, while Muslim organizations condemned it as Islamophobic propaganda. The Kerala High Court initially ordered an investigation but withdrew it after finding no substantial evidence.
The controversy resurfaced when a bishop from the Syro-Malabar Church warned of “Love Jihad” and “Narcotic Jihad,” sparking public debate. Critics argue that such claims fuel communal tensions and interfere with interfaith relationships. Meanwhile, Christian groups have also been accused of leading conversion efforts in Kerala. The debate continues, impacting legal, political, and social dynamics in the state.
#2 Christian Persecution
The “Love Jihad” debate in Kerala resurfaced after CM Oommen Chandy revealed that 2,667 young women converted to Islam between 2009-12. Hindu and Christian groups alleged forced conversions by Muslim youths feigning love, demanding investigations. However, police and courts found no evidence of an organized conspiracy. Muslim leaders dismissed the claims as propaganda. The controversy intensified with the arrest of Deepa Cherian, a Christian convert to Islam, for allegedly aiding a terror suspect. Critics argue that conversions to Christianity are overlooked, while Muslim conversions spark outrage. The issue remains divisive, with concerns over communal tensions and religious freedom in Kerala.
#3 Syro-Malabar Church Alleges ‘Love Jihad’ Links To IS
The Syro-Malabar Church of Kerala raised concerns over the rise in alleged ‘love jihad’ cases, linking them to an Islamic State (IS) agenda. The church claimed 12 Christian women were converted to Islam and taken to Syria, with some possibly killed. Father Antony Thalachelloor and George Kurian, Vice-Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, called for investigations, accusing radical Islamists of targeting Christian women. The Kerala government and police denied the existence of ‘love jihad,’ citing a lack of evidence. Minister K.T. Jaleel dismissed the claims as baseless and exaggerated. While the church urged awareness campaigns, critics argue the allegations fuel communal tensions.
#4 Kerala Priest Accuses Govt of Ignoring ‘Love Jihad’ Cases
On 26 January 2020, Fr. Varghese Vallikkatt, a senior Catholic priest in Kerala, accused the government of ignoring ‘Love Jihad’ cases, alleging that young women from South India were being used as sex slaves in war-torn nations like Syria and Afghanistan. In a video statement, he claimed the government’s inaction amounted to a “silent sanction” and criticized authorities for not maintaining data on missing women. The Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) supported these claims, blaming the police for inadequate investigations. However, Kerala’s Finance Minister dismissed the allegations, stating there was no factual basis for such claims.
#5 Love Jihad Justified for Jihadi Appeasement?
On 18 March 2021, a video on Love Jihad was shared on Facebook by the Christian Association and Alliance for Social Action (CASA), a Kerala-based Christian body. The video was one of many in 2021 aimed at “exposing Love Jihad.”
#6 From ‘Love Jihad’ To ‘Narcotic Jihad’
In 2021, Bishop Joseph Kallarangatt of Pala stated that Muslims were using “love jihad” and “narcotic jihad” to convert Christians, alleging they drugged non-Muslims. The Syro-Malabar Church warned against socializing with Muslims, aligning with right-wing rhetoric. While Muslim groups called for legal action, the Kerala government downplayed the issue.
#17 Church Handbook On ‘Love Jihad’
On 16 September 2021, the Thamarassery Diocese in Kerala released a handbook warning Christian students against an alleged “Love Jihad” conspiracy. The book outlined a nine-stage process, warning girls against physical contact with Muslim men and claiming Islamic clerics use “black magic” to trap them. It cited 160 alleged cases of ‘Love Jihad’ and 100 instances of “sex terrorism.”
The publication triggered controversy, with Muslim organizations demanding its confiscation for promoting communal hatred. The diocese later apologized, claiming the book’s intent was to protect Christian youth. Meanwhile, Jesuit priest Cedric Prakash dismissed the claims as a “Sangh Parivar conspiracy.” The Syro-Malabar Church has previously issued similar warnings, alleging targeted conversions. The Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) accused authorities of ignoring the issue.
#8 Thalassery Archdiocese Warned of ‘Love Trap’ Targeting Christian Girls
On 5 September 2022, a pastoral letter from the Thalassery Archdiocese, read in all parishes, warned that terrorist organizations are targeting Christian girls through love traps. Bishop Mar Joseph Pamplany urged parents to use catechism classes to educate children about extremist threats. He called for prayers for families affected by such incidents.
Similar concerns were previously raised by Pala Diocese Bishop Mar Joseph Kallarangatt, who linked ‘Love Jihad’ to narcotic-based radicalization. The Syro-Malabar Church supported these claims, citing complaints from various dioceses. However, Kerala’s state government and left-wing groups denied the existence of such a threat.
#9 Archbishop Warned Of Rising ‘Love Traps’ For Christian Girls
On April 8, 2023, Metropolitan Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany of the Thalassery Archdiocese raised concerns about the increasing number of “love traps” targeting Christian girls. In his Easter pastoral letter, he urged awareness and preventive measures. He also advocated for gender equality in inheritance, criticized the dowry system, and called for respect for women in society and the Church.
Pamplany reiterated previous warnings from Pala Bishop Mar Joseph Kallarangatt about ‘Love Jihad’ and ‘Narcotic Jihad’ in Kerala. He cited cases of Christian girls being exploited and radicalized. The Shraddha Walkar murder case was mentioned as a grim reminder of such dangers.
#10 Idukki Diocese Screens ‘The Kerala Story’ For Students
On 7 April 2024, the Idukki Diocese of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church screened the film ‘The Kerala Story’ for students in Grades 10 to 12 as part of catechism classes. Fr. Jins Karakkat, chairman of the Idukki Diocese Media Commission, stated that the screening aimed to educate youngsters about the risks in love affairs and marriage. Students were asked to review the film and discuss it in groups. The screening faced backlash from CPM and Congress, with DYFI screening a counter-video and Youth Congress protesting against Doordarshan’s telecast of the movie.
# 11 Syro-Malabar Church Backs BJP Leader PC George On ‘Love Jihad’
On 12 March 2025, the Syro-Malabar Church expressed support for BJP leader PC George, who claimed that 400 Christian girls in Meenachil taluk were lost to ‘love jihad.’ The Church’s Public Affairs Commission defended George’s remarks on drug trafficking, love traps, and terrorist activities, calling them factual and urging a high-level probe. Opposition parties, including Youth Congress and IUML Youth League, demanded action against George, who is out on bail for hate speech. The Church condemned religious interpretations of his statements. UDF MLA AKM Ashraf raised the issue in the Kerala Assembly, questioning the government’s inaction.
Christian Women – Victims Of Love Jihad – Instances
Let us look at the various love jihad victims in the Christian fold. This is the reason why the Kerala Church is worried for its folk.
#1 15-Year-Old Christian Girl Rescued After Abduction in Kozhikode
On 26 December 2023, a 15-year-old Christian girl was kidnapped during Pathira Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, Kozhikode, by Sharaf, a suspected ‘love jihadist.’ The girl, a class 10 student, was later rescued in Paleri with the help of police, CASA workers, and parishioners. KASA condemned the incident, urging Christian leaders to openly address ‘love jihad.’ The group criticized secularism and called for greater awareness in parishes. CASA workers, familiar with such cases, actively assisted the police, leading to the arrest of two suspects. KASA demanded strict punishment under POCSO laws and stronger community vigilance.
#2 Communal Tensions In Kerala Over Interfaith Marriage
On 12 April 2022, Jyotsna Mary Joseph, a Christian nurse, married Shejin, a Muslim DYFI leader from Kannoth, without her family’s consent, sparking allegations of ‘love jihad’. Christian groups protested, and CPI(M) leader George M. Thomas initially supported the claims but later retracted after party intervention. CPI(M) distanced itself from ‘love jihad’ rhetoric, stating interfaith marriages are personal choices. BJP’s V. Muraleedharan accused the Left of hypocrisy, demanding CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s clarification. The incident led to political and communal tensions, with social media campaigns and protests from both sides.
#3 Christian Woman Alleges Forced Detention For Religious Conversion
On January 16, 2022, a 20-year-old Christian woman from Kochi accused her husband, Aslam (33), and his family of detaining her in an Islamic theological center in Ponnani for 40 days to forcefully convert her to Islam. The couple had a love marriage in 2019, agreeing to respect each other’s faiths. After escaping, she filed a police complaint for dowry harassment, wrongful confinement, and abuse. The court denied Aslam’s bail, citing mental, physical, and emotional torture. The judge noted severe psychological distress, including allegations that Aslam shared intimate moments with friends and pressured her to convert.
# 4 Syro-Malabar Church Alleges ‘Love Jihad’ Targeting Christian Women
On 17 January 2020, Kerala’s Syro-Malabar Church alleged that 12 Christian women were converted to Islam and recruited by IS in 2016. The church claimed Christian women were being targeted through ‘love jihad’ and urged awareness campaigns. George Kurian, Vice-Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, sought an NIA probe, alleging conversions linked to terrorism. Kerala Minister K.T. Jaleel dismissed the claims as baseless, stating no police evidence supported ‘love jihad’. The Popular Front of India (PFI) demanded the church withdraw its statement, arguing it fueled communal tensions amid nationwide protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
#5 Arrest of Former Christian Housewife Sparks ‘Love Jihad’ Debate
On 19 July 2012, Deepa Cherian, a former Christian housewife, was arrested in Kochi for allegedly supplying SIM cards to terror suspect T. Nazir through her lover V. Noushad, a jailed drug smuggler. Cherian had converted to Islam after leaving her family in Dubai. The case reignited ‘love jihad’ concerns, with Hindu and Christian groups demanding investigations into alleged forced conversions. However, Kerala CM Oommen Chandy and police found no evidence of ‘love jihad’. Muslim groups condemned the allegations as an attempt to vilify Muslims, while Christian leaders called for vigilance against conversion-linked terror activities.
Let us now take a look at statements made by the Church on unlawful organisation PFI associated with terror.
#1 Hate Speech At PFI Rally In Kerala Condemned By Church
On 22 May 2022, the Kerala Police registered a case after a viral video showed a minor boy raising hate slogans at a PFI rally in Alappuzha. The boy, sitting on a man’s shoulders, shouted slogans threatening Hindus and Christians, calling for ‘final rites’ preparations. The Kerala Catholic Bishops Council condemned the government’s inaction. The NCPCR demanded action, citing Juvenile Justice Act violations. Cases were filed against PFI leaders under IPC Sections 153A, 295A, 505, and 506. The PFI distanced itself from the slogans. The rally occurred amid rising communal tensions following past political killings in the region.
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