KCBC, a permanent association of Catholic bishops in the state, urged both the Central and state governments to ensure safe release of the priest as early as possible.
“KCBC is very much concerned about prolonged uncertainty in the release of Father Tom Uzhunnalil. We request the Central and state governments to continue their sincere efforts to make possible his safe release from the captivity of militants in Yemen,” a press release said after a two-day meeting of the Catholic bishops in Kochi, the commercial capital of Kerala.
Minister of State for External Affairs, Gen V K Singh, had said last month in Kottayam that there was no “adverse” report about the 57-year-old Salesian priest.
The Regional Councillor of the Salesian Congregation for South Asia, Fr. Maria Arokiam Kanaga SDB has also expressed his deep anguish in not arriving at a speedy solution to this impasse about Fr. Tom, a student of his. He had visited Aden a few years ago and seen personally the good work done by Fr. Tom and by the Missionaries of Charity of Mother Theresa. It is unfortunate that their dedicated services to the poor and the sickly, irrespective of religious differences, have not been recognised for their merit. He thanks all those who are trying to get Fr. Tom released and requests them them to redouble their efforts.
