Thiruvananthapuram, April 11 A church-supported Malayalam daily published a strongly worded editorial on Saturday, criticizing "political opportunists" amid the ongoing controversy over proposed amendments to the FCRA.
The BJP disapproved of the contents in the editorial, while the Congress condemned the remarks made by the saffron party leaders.
The editorial in 'Deepika Daily' asserted that its stance would remain unchanged despite alleged threats and attempts to silence minority voices.
The hard-hitting editorial came a day after BJP leader P C George and his son Shone George made critical remarks against certain bishops over their reported stance during the April 9 Assembly polls.
George and his son had contested as BJP-NDA candidates in Poonjar and Pala constituencies respectively.
Referring to laws framed in the name of the larger public but allegedly affecting minorities disproportionately, the daily warned against efforts to curb discussions on the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
"Even if political opportunists come forward with threats asking not to speak about the FCRA, our stand will remain the same," the editorial said, adding that political "defilers" should not be allowed to hijack the issue. However, the editorial did not name anyone in particular.
Responding to the editorial, Shone criticised the newspaper, stating that its views cannot be considered as the official stand of the Church.
"The Church is an institution comprising individuals, including me. Journalism is not about taking sides with any political party or front," he told reporters here.
He also alleged that the daily had taken a position favouring the Congress-led UDF ahead of the Assembly elections.
He said there was no change in his stance and that he had already conveyed his views to church heads, adding that he would file an official complaint in the matter.
Echoing similar views, P C George said he respects the clergy, but would respond if bishops show ingratitude and engage in politics.
He had earlier alleged that some bishops supported the UDF in the polls.
Meanwhile, Congress leader V D Satheesan termed the remarks of the father-son duo against the Catholic Church and 'Deepika' as condemnable. He said the UDF would be at the forefront in resisting any moves against the Church and the newspaper.
In a statement, Satheesan alleged that such remarks had the backing of BJP leadership and accused the party of "resorting to threats" after realising it may not get the expected electoral support.
He also said that any attempt to target the Christian community would be resisted by secular forces in the state.
Amid the controversy, George on Saturday visited the Bishop House in Pala and met Mar Joseph Pallikaparambil, who is celebrating his 100th birthday.
Speaking to reporters, George said he had not gone there to discuss politics and maintained that he has no issues with the Church. He reiterated that he respects the clergy, but would continue to react if bishops engage in politics.
Churches in Kerala have expressed concern over the proposed amendments to the FCRA, which were introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25.
The Centre has maintained that the changes are aimed at enhancing transparency and ensuring proper utilisation of foreign funds, while preventing misuse.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai had said the proposed legislation seeks to strengthen accountability in the use of foreign contributions.