The Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) has lashed out at the alleged neglect being meted out by Central and State governments towards the welfare of the fishing community. The council hinted at the possibility of reviewing its equidistant political stance on account of the continued neglect.
Addressing media persons here on Saturday, Thiruvananthapuram Archbishop (Latin rite) and KRLCC president Soosa Pakiam M. said that large sections of the fisherfolk in the State were yet to regain their footing in the aftermath of the Cylcone Ockhi tragedy.
“The fishing community has displayed its selfless nature by being in the forefront of the rescue operations during the recent floods. The efforts of the fishermen, who are yet to recover from the losses suffered during the cyclone, led many to regard them as the State’s army. However, while rich praises have been showered on them, little thought has gone into ensuring their welfare,” he said.
He pointed out that while the State government had announced a ₹2,000-crore package for fishermen, only around ₹113 crore had been utilised so far. Besides, only 40-odd people had been provided jobs, albeit, for daily wages, in the Matsyafed.
He said the council had always maintained an equidistant political stance, one that was issue-based and stood in solidarity with the backward and marginalised sections. “While we are hopeful of a favourable response by the government (towards their demands), the community will back those who support them and abandon those who sought to neglect them. However, under no circumstances, will be adopt a blind decision,” he said.
In order to press for their demands, the KRLCC will observe Sunday as ‘community day.’ The observance will be marked with a convention at Shangumughom at 5 p.m. Members of 12 Latin Catholic dioceses in the State will take part in the programme, which will be inaugurated by the Archbishop.
Union Minister of State for Tourism K.J. Alphons, Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala, Fisheries Minister J. Mercykutty Amma and Forests Minister K. Raju will participate in the convention.