Police Probe Death Threat Letter Sent to Kerala Bishop

Kerala, Nov 4, 2025: Police in Kerala have initiated an investigation into a death threat made against a Catholic bishop, allegedly from a group identifying itself as the Islamic Defence Force of India.

According to reports, Bishop Remigiose Inchananiyil of the Thamarassery Diocese received the threat in a letter written in Malayalam and hand-delivered to his office. The letter was received at the Bishop’s House on 31 October and handed over to the Thamarassery police for investigation.

A diocesan official told Catholic Connect that the investigation is ongoing and that the diocese is cooperating closely with the authorities. The official added that the Church is taking the matter seriously and has encouraged the faithful to remain prayerful as the inquiry continues. ports also mentioned that Bishop Inchananiyil is currently abroad.

According to reports, the letter bore the name Abdul Rashid as its author and appeared to be “aimed at creating communal discord between Christians and Muslims” in the state ahead of next year’s state election. Reports also stated that only a full police investigation could confirm its authenticity.

The letter alleged a demand for 70 percent reservation for Muslims in government and semi-government employment, asserting that the Muslim community — which makes up around 26 percent of Kerala’s 33 million residents — contributes 90 percent of the state’s revenue.

It also said there should be provisions in government-funded schools to enable Muslim students to observe their religious practices and accused Christians of encroaching on Muslim cemetery land to construct churches and institutions.

The letter further referred to the recent hijab controversy at a Catholic-run school in the state, where a Muslim student had initially been barred from attending classes while wearing a headscarf. The issue was later settled in the Kerala High Court after the girl’s parents withdrew their petition.

Security measures have since been increased at the Bishop’s House and nearby Church institutions.

By Catholic Connect Reporter