Kerala, Idukki, Syro-Malabar Church, controversy, 'The Kerala Story', catechism, Love Jihad, Fr Jins Karakkat, BJP, VD Satheeshan, K Surendran, Doordarshan, Chief Minister

The Idukki diocese of the Syro-Malabar Church stirred up controversy by screening 'The Kerala Story' for catechism students in Classes 10 to 12 during a vacation course held in parish churches.

The movie screening was part of the course curriculum, encouraging students to watch, discuss, and review the film. One segment of the curriculum addressed the topic of 'Love Jihad'.

Fr Jins Karakkat, the chairman of the diocese's media commission, clarified that the intention was to raise awareness among students. He explained, "The movie was screened as an activity for students to watch, discuss, and review. We also discussed 'Love Jihad' in the course."

Karakkat emphasized that the discussion on 'love jihad' didn't target any specific religion or community. He clarified, "We mentioned 'love jihad' to highlight a scheme where young people are deceived in the name of love for ulterior motives."

An image purportedly from the course booklet shared on social media described 'love jihad' as an activity of extremist organizations. However, it also stated that the police found no evidence of an organized "love jihad" movement within the Muslim community.

The booklet claimed that proponents of "love jihad" are extremists who use tactics like offering love, gifts, and money to entice girls from other religions for their own agendas.

Opposition leader VD Satheeshan criticized the decision to screen 'The Kerala Story', labeling it as fictional and derogatory towards Kerala. He argued, "It's a made-up story to tarnish Kerala's image."

Meanwhile, BJP state president K Surendran supported the film, stating it has received backing from various quarters in Kerala. He cited instances of 'love jihad' victimization among girls in the state.

Although there was no official ban on the movie's screening in Kerala, its recent telecast on Doordarshan caused controversy, with the Chief Minister condemning it for spreading hatred against Kerala.

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