Kerala Latin Catholic Association Sounds Alarm Over LPG Crisis Impacting Religious Feast
The Kerala Latin Catholic Association (KLCA) has formally written to both the state and central governments, expressing grave concerns about the ongoing LPG crisis. The association warns that the acute shortage of cooking gas could severely affect the traditional Oottu Thirunal, the massive community meal held annually on March 19 in churches throughout Kerala to celebrate the feast of St. Joseph.
Community Meal Tradition Under Threat
In its detailed letter, the KLCA highlighted that the general public is already facing significant difficulties due to the LPG shortage. Many hotels have reportedly reduced their operations because they cannot secure adequate cooking gas supplies. The association emphasized that Christian churches across Kerala typically organize the Oottu Thirunal on March 19, and the current gas shortage poses a direct challenge to preparing and serving food for this large-scale religious event.
Urgent Government Action Demanded
The KLCA held an official meeting where officials unanimously demanded immediate government intervention to address the cooking gas shortage. The meeting was presided over by association state president Sherry J Thomas. State general secretary Biju Josy Karumanchery, treasurer Ratheesh Antony, and multiple vice-presidents including Aby Kunneparambil, Alex Thaloopadath, Naiju Arakkal, Pailey Alungal, Patrick Michael, and CJ Paul participated actively.
Additionally, secretaries Usha Lazar, Christopher S, Conclin Jimmy John, Jayan Kunnel, John Babu, and Sheeba Mathew spoke at the gathering, reinforcing the urgent need for resolution. The association stressed that timely government action is crucial to ensure the smooth conduct of the religious feast, which holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the community.
Broader Implications of the Crisis
The LPG shortage has extended beyond domestic households to impact commercial establishments and now threatens important community events. The KLCA's appeal underscores how essential commodities like cooking gas are intertwined with social and religious practices in Kerala. The association's proactive approach in contacting both state and central authorities reflects the seriousness of the situation and the potential disruption to longstanding traditions if the crisis persists.
