Faction feud: Pepper spray attack at Kurinji church

Kochi: Puthencruz police have registered a case after a clash broke out between Orthodox and Jacobite factions of the Malankara Church on Saturday evening at St Peter and Paul Church in Kurinji. Members of the Jacobite faction have sought treatment, alleging that they were attacked with pepper spray by the rival faction.According to Puthencruz police, the incident occurred around 6pm. Following a dispute, a system was in place at the church where the Orthodox and Jacobite factions take turns to conduct services."For the past few years, the church festival used to come when it is the Jacobite faction's turn. This year, however, it was during the Orthodox turn. For the Orthodox side, it is one priest who used to conduct the services. However, for the fest, the priest requested one more priest for assistance since there would be a procession that lasts a few kilometres," said an officer.He said that when an additional priest of the Orthodox faction reached the church, the Jacobite faction blocked him."Two persons who were with the Orthodox priest then used pepper spray on those who blocked the priest. A clash ensued, with both factions fighting each other," said an officer.He said that police have registered a case against the Orthodox members, while a few persons of the Jacobite faction sought treatment at an eye hospital in Kothamangalam.He said that the Jacobite faction's claim is that more than one priest was not allowed since the Orthodox faction is a minority in the region. He added that eventually the mass was held but the procession as part of the church fest was abandoned. Police added that there was a counter allegation that the Orthodox priest was attacked. Police said they are yet to get clarity on the allegations as they have not received a formal complaint or hospital intimation yet.