Kerala HC Backs State Mediation in Orthodox-Jacobite Row
What Happened
The Kerala High Court has asked the state to mediate the Orthodox-Jacobite Church dispute whenever it triggers law-and-order issues. The court said governments should stay neutral in religious matters but can intervene to restore peace through dialogue. The High Court clarified that the 2017 Supreme Court verdict on Malankara churches does not automatically determine possession of individual church properties. Claims over management and property rights must first be decided by a competent civil court before police protection can be granted.
Key Takeaways
The court has encouraged a negotiated settlement rather than prolonged litigation, backing a state-led mediation effort while limiting the use of police action in unresolved property disputes.