The protest by Catholic fishing communities seeking compensation from a multi-billion-dollar port project has entered its second month with their arch-bishop threatening to move his “stay and prayer” action to the protest venue in southern India.
“My stay and prayer will be moved to the protest venue from the archbishop’s house if required,” Archbishop Thomas Netto of Trivandrum said while addressing protesters in Kerala’s state capital on Aug. 23, as the protest entered its 34th day.
Thousands of fisherfolk under the leadership of archdiocesan bishops and priests have been protesting since July 20 against the multi-billion-dollar Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone on the coast of Vizhinjam.
They say the port endangers the livelihoods of fisher families, has displaced thousands of people and adversely affected the environment and caused coastal erosion.
The state government has ignored their demands which include suspending the project to study its environmental and social impact, rehabilitation of displaced people and employment for those who lost their livelihood and compensation for all who suffered damage.
“Fishermen and the Christian community believe Christ and the cross as everything in their lives. We know Christ died at the age of 33.  His death brought liberation for humanity. We fight for justice trusting in Christ. We have nothing to lose,” said Arch-bishop Netto, a key figure in the protest who hails from a local parish.
“We are only asking the government to rehabilitate those who lost their houses.”
He announced the decision to intensify the agitation until the government accepts their demands. “I am ready to sacrifice my life for my people,” the arch-bishop said amid thunderous applause.