KRLCC Urges Responsible Voting, Raises Concern Over Campaign Excesses

Kochi, March 7, 2026: The Kerala Regional Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) has called on citizens to exercise their franchise responsibly in the forthcoming elections, stressing that active participation is essential to strengthening democracy and upholding secular values.

In a press statement issued here, the council encouraged all eligible voters to make full use of their right to vote, noting that broad public participation remains vital for the health of democratic institutions.

Reaffirming its established political stance, the KRLCC stated that the Latin Catholic community would continue to maintain an equidistant approach, guided by issues and values rather than partisan alignment. It urged voters to assess candidates based on their practical commitment to public concerns, personal integrity, value systems, and social responsibility.

The council also expressed concern over what it described as the inadequate focus on election manifestos during the campaign period. According to its Political Affairs Committee, key issues such as Kerala’s comprehensive development and balanced social progress have not received the attention they deserve in public discourse.

Critiquing prevailing campaign practices, the KRLCC pointed to the growing trend of exaggerated claims, unrealistic promises, and excessive spending on publicity, including large-scale display of promotional materials. Such practices, it noted, place an indirect financial burden on the public.

The council urged political parties to adopt more responsible and issue-oriented campaigning, emphasising that electoral processes should reflect integrity and accountability.

By Joseph Jude, KRLCC