After state elections, Church urges just and transparent governance

NEW DELHI (Indian Catholic News) — The head of the Catholic Church in India, while extending congratulations on the successful and peaceful conclusion of assembly elections in five states and a union territory, urged new governments to uphold the Constitution and govern with justice and transparency.

In a statement issued May 6, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India congratulated the people of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam and Puducherry for the peaceful completion of the democratic process and praised victorious political parties and candidates.

“The true measure of a vibrant democracy lies not just in the successful conduct of elections, but in the steadfast commitment of elected leaders to serve the most vulnerable,” said Cardinal Anthony Poola of Hyderabad, President of the CBCI.

 “We urge the new governments to work hand-in-hand with all institutions to build a more just, inclusive, and equitable India,” he said in that statement.

The bishops’ conference also urged the incoming governments “to govern with transparency and prioritize inclusive policies.”

“As new state governments take shape, the CBCI earnestly calls upon the newly elected leadership, regardless of their party affiliations, to steadfastly respect and uphold the Constitution of India,” the statement said.

The conference stressed that governments should dedicate their mandate “preferentially towards the upliftment of the poor, the marginalized, the less advantaged, and minority communities.”

“True nation development is achieved only when the fruits of progress reach the most vulnerable sections of our society,” the statement added.

The CBCI also reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to nation-building through its educational, medical and social welfare institutions.

“Through our educational, medical, and social welfare institutions, we remain resolutely dedicated to advancing the collective good, peace, and prosperity of all citizens,” the statement said.

The bishops concluded by expressing hope that elected representatives would be guided by “wisdom, justice, and deep compassion” in public service.

Read the full statement.