Kerala Latin Catholic Council Raises Concerns Over Democratic Rights, Electoral Roll Revision

KOCHI, October 13, 2026: The Political Affairs Committee of the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) has raised concerns over what it described as the Union government’s weakening of democratic institutions and constitutional safeguards, calling for stronger protection of civil rights, electoral integrity and democratic accountability.

In a statement, the committee said democracy extends beyond elections to include freedom of expression, secularism, social justice, minority rights, independent journalism, an impartial judiciary and meaningful parliamentary debate.

It warned that treating criticism and dissent with suspicion, concentrating power and undermining the autonomy of constitutional institutions could threaten the future of Indian democracy.

The committee also called for an independent and credible inquiry into concerns surrounding the special summary revision of electoral rolls in various parts of the country. It said allegations by opposition parties and other organisations regarding the removal of voters’ names, procedural transparency and the impartiality of the Election Commission required serious examination.

Rather than suppressing criticism, the committee said, democratic governance must respond to public concerns through clear and transparent explanations.

Emphasising the importance of electoral participation, the KRLCC said the right to vote was not a favour granted by the state but a constitutional guarantee. While acknowledging the need to maintain accurate electoral rolls, it stressed that every eligible citizen must be able to exercise the right to vote.

The committee urged the authorities to act in ways that build public trust and protect the pluralistic character and constitutional foundations of Indian democracy.

It also called for an end to practices that restrict the functioning of Parliament and other democratic institutions, arguing that these bodies must be strengthened to ensure accountability and effective governance.

The statement further urged the government to give greater attention to pressing public concerns, including unemployment, rising prices, workers’ rights and social inequality.

Describing democracy as a system designed to protect citizens’ rights rather than serve as an instrument of power, the KRLCC appealed to all those committed to democratic principles to unite in safeguarding constitutional values, civil liberties and justice.

Jude Joseph, KRLCC