The Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (TCYM) gathered on January 18 for its annual general body meeting, passing resolutions on the upcoming Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections and planning strategies for youth engagement in the democratic process.
The meeting of TCYM, a wing of the Youth Commission of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council, was held at the Tamil Nadu Laity Formation Centre in Pirattiyur, Trichy. The day began with a Pongal Mass led by Bishop Nazarene Soosai, Chairman of Regional Youth Commission and diocesan directors, made special with folk music hymns celebrating the harvest festival.
Following the flag hoisting, movement pledge, and reading of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, participants attended a keynote session titled “Election Arena and Youth Political Engagement”, delivered by Mr. Aseervatham, State Coordinator of People’s Watch.
Drawing on his personal journey and the historic role of Christians in Tamil Nadu’s social progress, Mr. Aseervatham highlighted the threats posed by regressive and communal forces. He urged Catholic youth to vote thoughtfully, not based on celebrity appeal, to safeguard constitutional rights, religious freedom, and the space for progressive civic engagement.
“Rights once hard-won for women and marginalized groups are now at risk,” he warned. “If we do not exercise our vote carefully, the freedoms we enjoy could be lost.”
Bishop Nazarene encouraged the youth to read widely, plan strategically, and collaborate with like-minded movements, emphasizing the importance of the TCYM’s 2026 annual plan and strengthening organizational structures.
Participants divided into regional groups to draft action plans for the Assembly elections, which were adopted as official resolutions. The day also featured reports from new office bearers, the screening of a Pongal liturgical song, “Saami Peyara Paadiduvom,” and the election of the State Executive and Administrative Committees, conducted via sociocracy (consensus-based method).
Outgoing committee members were thanked for their two years of service, and the new team took office with an oath of commitment. The meeting concluded with the reading of resolutions, a vote of thanks by the new President, and the singing of the TCYM anthem.
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