Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Pass Resolutions on Responsible Voting and Constitutional Values Ahead of Assembly Polls

Trichy, Tamil Nadu January 19, 2026: Ahead of the forthcoming Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (TCYM) adopted a series of resolutions aimed at strengthening youth political participation, promoting informed voting, and safeguarding constitutional and democratic values.

The resolutions were passed during the TCYM general body meeting held on January 11 at the Tamil Nadu Laity Formation Centre, organised under the Youth Commission of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council.

Following extensive deliberations and regional group discussions, the youth movement resolved to actively promote informed and responsible voting among young people across the state. Emphasising the role of youth as stakeholders in democracy, TCYM committed itself to conducting voter awareness initiatives at the grassroots level in the run-up to the Assembly elections.

The movement also reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the Constitution of India, defend religious freedom, and protect human dignity. Expressing concern over growing challenges to democratic institutions and minority rights, the resolutions called on Catholic youth to remain vigilant and to engage constructively in the public sphere.

As part of its election preparedness, TCYM resolved to collaborate with like-minded democratic organisations to strengthen civic awareness and encourage ethical political engagement. The general body further decided to reinforce the organisational structure of the movement at diocesan and regional levels, in accordance with the TCYM Annual Plan 2026, to ensure coordinated action during the election period.

The resolutions were adopted after a keynote session on “Election Arena and Youth Political Engagement” delivered by Aseervatham, State Coordinator of People’s Watch, who highlighted the importance of responsible citizenship and cautioned against the erosion of constitutional values. He urged young voters to exercise discernment and not be influenced by populism or celebrity-driven campaigns, noting that fundamental rights, including religious freedom, were at stake.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Nazarene Soosai, Chairman of the Youth Commission, encouraged Catholic youth to cultivate critical thinking and informed decision-making. He called on diocesan directors and youth leaders to work collaboratively and strengthen networks to respond effectively to the challenges posed by the upcoming elections.

The meeting also saw the presentation and formal adoption of region-wise action plans linked to the Assembly polls. Reports on activities carried out over the past six months were submitted by diocesan representatives, and new office bearers introduced themselves to the assembly.

Elections to the new State Executive Committee and Administrative Committee were conducted using a sociocracy-based consensus method, followed by the oath-taking ceremony. Outgoing executive members were felicitated in recognition of their two years of service.

The general body meeting concluded with the formal adoption of the resolutions, a vote of thanks by the newly elected state president, and the singing of the TCYM anthem.

By Abishek Raja

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