The cardinal informed Vijayan that it was not proper to deny spiritual and psychological help given to the prisoners, said Father Jacob G Palakkappilly, the bishops’ council spokesperson.

The chief minister agreed with the cardinal and decided immediately to reverse the decision, Palakkappilly told the media on April 6.

Vijayan also confided to the prelate that the order was issued without his knowledge and that an explanation would be sought from the officer concerned, the priest said.

Balram Kumar Upadhyay, the director general of prisons in a circular issued on March 31 banned the entry of Church groups and other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the prisons for religious and other psychological counselling sessions without assigning any reason.

The order came as a shock to Church leaders in India especially those engaged in prison ministry helping the prisoners in various ways to come out of the trauma of their prison life and create a positive outlook toward their future life, said Palakkappilly.

“We are happy that the Chief Minister understood our point and immediately agreed to lift the ban,” Palakkappilly added.

Palakkappilly said Jesus Fraternity which functions under the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council “will hold Maundy Thursday services and celebrate holy Eucharist in various jails in the state” that will help Christian prisoners.