Concerns Raised Over Demolition of Christ the King Church at Kayyar
Mangaluru, February 21, 2026: A group of parishioners and local residents have expressed concern over the recent demolition of the old Christ the King Church building at Kayyar in Kasaragod district. The concerns were shared during a press conference held at the Press Club, Mangaluru, on February 21.
Kayyar, located approximately 42 km from Mangaluru, is known for its cultural diversity, scenic surroundings, and literary heritage. It is the birthplace of noted Kannada poet Kayyara Kinhanna Rai and is home to places such as Posadi Gumpe. The village is widely regarded as a symbol of communal harmony, with places of worship representing different faith traditions.
The Christ the King Church, which came under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mangalore, was originally constructed in 1953 under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Lawrence S. Pais and inaugurated on April 25, 1956. For several decades, the church served as a spiritual and community centre for the faithful in Kayyar and neighbouring areas.
According to the speakers, a new church building is currently under construction at a different site under the leadership of the parish priest, Fr. Vishal Monis. They stated that efforts had been made to preserve the old structure, citing its architectural and historical significance, particularly its Roman-Gothic design elements.
The group informed that a petition seeking preservation of the old building had been submitted to the diocesan authorities. They also stated that, as per the guidance of Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha, eleven individuals had submitted written undertakings expressing willingness to assume responsibility for the maintenance of the structure.
Additionally, a structural stability assessment was reportedly obtained from National Institute of Technology Karnataka Surathkal (NITK Surathkal), along with a report from a conservation architect. Copies of these documents were said to have been submitted to the authorities concerned.
Despite these representations, the old church building was demolished. The speakers expressed disappointment over the demolition process and called for clarification regarding the circumstances under which the decision was taken.
They urged the diocesan authorities to respond to the concerns raised and emphasised the importance of safeguarding heritage structures for future generations. The group also indicated that they would consider further steps, including peaceful protest, if their queries are not addressed.
Present at the press conference were Wilson JP D’ Souza, John D’ Souza, Aneesh Suares, Anston Sures, Oswald D’ Souza, and Prakash Noronha.
