Society · India
Mar Thoma priest's call for pre-marital HIV tests sparks debate
A priest and trustee of the Mar Thoma Church, Dr. K. Thomas, has sparked controversy and debate by calling for mandatory HIV tests before marriages within the church. He made these remarks at a church family gathering in Thiruvananthapuram on August 30, 2026. The priest also reportedly suggested that brides should be checked for 'abuse'. The call for mandatory testing has drawn criticism and discussion regarding privacy and consent.
How outlets across the spectrum covered it
L 1 C 2 R 1
- Left (1): The News Minute
- Centre (2): Mathrubhumi English, The Statesman
- Right (1): The Commune