Aaranmula Paithruka Grama Karma Samiti denounces Joseph Marthoma Metropolita’s statement.

published on December 5, 2012

The ‘Paithruka Grama Karma Samiti’ has alleged that the statements made by Dr. Joseph Marthoma Metropolita, comparing the nationally declared heritage zone of Aaranmula to the Ponthanpuzha forests, have slandered the ancient cultural heritage of the place. “The Aaranmula village can always be termed as a spot radiating cultural pride for every Indian. However, the Metropolita has maliciously said that the place reeks of garbage and is now a waste bin containing the foulest of waste and that it is now like the Ponthanpuzha forets. Statements of this type do not just disappoint, but invoke ample protests from the people who stand genuinely hurt,” said a statement issued by Aaranmula Paithruka Grama Karma Samiti.

“The eagerness being shown by the Metropolita in supporting the agenda of constructing an airport that is bypassing all legal norms has distressed a great culture, with his extreme defamatory remarks. Earlier, the MP from this place had declared the place to be a ‘forsaken forest’. Now, a religious head refers to the place as a waste basket. The aim of both stands clear: destruction of a heritage village,” said the statement.

“It has been decided to re-start paddy cultivation in as much as 6 acres of land. We have obtained documents which show that cultivation was done here last year as well. The fields are now clogged with water because the prime tributary of river Pampa, Kozhithodu has been wiped off, after being filled with sand. The farmers have now submitted a plea to the Irrigation and Agriculture departments to get the sand removed to receive the copious flow of water. However, the government remains callous and indifferent as usual. A very clever move to destroy cultivation and agriculture in the area, so that larger schemes like the airport comes into existence. All they want to do at any cost is support and propel the moves of the land mafia,” cited the statement.

The group has requested the Metropolita to come in person, gauge in person the controversial spot and accept reality. The members spearheading the movement have called for withdrawal of the declaration and have sought immediate revelation of truth regarding Aaranmula.