ASIA/INDIA - Legislative elections, the Bishops: "Respect and firmly defend the Indian Constitution"

New Delhi (Fides News Agency) - The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) issued an appeal "for the integrity of the Constitution and inclusive governance in India" following the parliamentary elections in the Indian states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, and the Union Territory of Puducherry. In a statement sent to Fides, the CBCI, which comprises approximately 300 bishops of the three rites represented in the country (Latin, Syro-Malabar, and Syro-Malankara), expressed its hope for a peaceful and successful conclusion to the parliamentary elections and appealed to the newly elected politicians "to resolutely respect and protect the Indian Constitution, regardless of their political affiliation." “We urge the new leaders to govern transparently and prioritize inclusive policies,” the statement reads. “It is essential that the parties forming the government prioritize their mandate to improving the lives of the poor, the marginalized, the disadvantaged, and minorities. True development of a nation is only achieved when the fruits of progress reach the most vulnerable members of our society.”
The text continues: “The Catholic Church in India reaffirms its unwavering commitment to working with the government in the continued development of the nation. Through our educational, health, and social service institutions, we remain resolutely committed to the common good, peace, and prosperity of all citizens.” Cardinal Anthony Poola, Chairman of the CBCI, emphasized this commitment to the nation's common good: “The true measure of a vibrant democracy lies not only in the successful conduct of elections, but also in the unwavering dedication of elected representatives to the most vulnerable members of society. We call upon the new governments to work closely with all institutions to create a more just, inclusive, and equitable India.” “We pray that the elected representatives may be guided by wisdom, justice, and deep compassion as they embark on this important path of public service and governance,” the bishops concluded in their statement.
“We pray that the elected representatives will be guided by wisdom, justice, and deep compassion on their important journey in public service and governance,” the bishops concluded. The results of the May 4 elections, held in the states of Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and the Puducherry Territory, resulted in a clear victory for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In West Bengal, the BJP surpassed the absolute majority of 148 seats—a success that observers described as "historic." In Puducherry, the government also remained in the hands of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the BJP-led coalition. In Assam, a northeastern Indian state bordering Bangladesh, the BJP will begin its second consecutive term.
In Kerala and Tamil Nadu, two southern states, voters opted for the opposition: In Kerala, a Congress-led coalition won, securing an absolute majority in parliament with 95 seats; In Tamil Nadu, the Tamil Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), a party founded by Vijay, a famous Tamil actor and a "new man" in politics, emerged victorious. John Dayal, a Catholic journalist and analyst, told Fides: “These results paint a picture of the state of Indian democracy ahead of the 2029 national elections. The BJP’s power in India is growing: of the 28 states, 22 are governed by either the BJP or its coalition partners; the same applies for two of the three union territories. This is a level of political and cultural dominance that India has not seen for 50 years.” “We are also witnessing the progressive decline of regional parties,” he continued, “which have historically played a significant role.” “This vote raises crucial questions about pluralism, debate, and shifting of political forces that are the essence of democracy,” he noted. Dayal further notes: “For non-Hindu religious communities, especially Muslims and Christians, the concern is how much space BJP governments will give to Hindu extremist groups that use violence in society, particularly against minorities.” (PA) (Fides News Agency, 7/5/2026)

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