The Kerala government has put forward a proposal to mediate the longstanding conflict between the Orthodox and Jacobite factions concerning the administration of six Malankara churches within the state. This development was revealed in a statement related to the case Fr Varghese Palathinkal & ors v St Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church & ors, among other linked cases.
The State’s statement, dated August 8, 2026, was submitted following a directive from the Kerala High Court issued on August 4, 2026, regarding one of the seven writ appeals associated with the contention. These appeals involve disagreements over the administration of six churches located across Palakkad, Ernakulam, and Kollam.
High-Level Mediation Proposed
Chief Minister VD Satheesan has personally intervened, proposing a high-level mediation to encourage dialogue between the two factions for a peaceful resolution. The government expressed its commitment to facilitating discussions with the denominational leaders of both the Orthodox and Jacobite factions, aiming for an amicable settlement.
The historical divide between the Orthodox and Jacobite factions of the Malankara Christians centers on administrative control and allegiance. The Supreme Court, in its 2017 judgment in KS Varghese v St Peter’s and Paul’s Syrian Orthodox Church and others, upheld the 1934 Constitution that grants the Orthodox faction authority over church administration. However, the Orthodox faction contends that the implementation of this judgment has been inconsistent, perpetuating the conflict.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The Kerala High Court, scheduled to deliver its judgment on the appeals on August 13, 2026, has been involved in the ongoing legal battle concerning the dispute. In 2022, the court allowed Orthodox members to conduct prayer services in certain disputed churches, but enforcement faced resistance, leading to a contempt of court case.
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On August 30, 2024, a single judge directed District Collectors to seize control of the disputed churches, a decision contested by both the State and Jacobite factions. The Division Bench initially dismissed these appeals, but the Supreme Court remanded the matter back to the High Court for reconsideration. Subsequently, the Division Bench revoked the directive but allowed the single judge to determine further actions in the contempt case.
Efforts for Resolution
The Kerala government’s efforts to mediate reflect the distress experienced by parishioners due to prolonged litigation affecting public order. The State recognizes the significant impact of these factions, noting their contributions to education, healthcare, and social reform.
Representing the Orthodox faction is Senior Counsel S Sreekumar, along with advocates Roshan D Alexander, Tina Alex Thomas, and Harimohan. The Jacobite members are represented by Senior Counsel K Ramakumar, with advocates Saji Varghese and Sajan Varghese. The statement in the case was filed by Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha through Additional Advocate General Mohammed Shah PA.
