Thiruvananthapuram | A senior priest of the Mar Thoma Church in Keralam has attracted criticism for suggesting that HIV test be made mandatory before marriages conducted by the church.

Mar Thoma Church priest trustee Rev Dr K Thomas made the remarks while addressing parents at a recent family gathering organised by the church here. He also urged parents to ensure that their daughter's body has not been "misused" while they bring them to the church for marriage.

The video of the priest's speech during the event was telecast by TV channels on Thursday.

Claiming that Karnataka government has decided to conduct HIV tests on college campuses, he said similar tests should be conducted before marriages in the church.

"I am a person who wants all marriages conducted in the Mar Thoma Church to be held only after undergoing such tests. Parents, don't feel bad about me," he said.

The priest also said the purpose of this family gathering was to enable parents in this regard.

His remarks have drawn criticism on social media platforms, with many saying they amounted to an insult to young people of the Mar Thoma Church.