Will Chhattisgarh CM Ensure Justice for Arrested Nuns?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, the Tipra Motha Party leader has urged Chhattisgarh's CM to deliver justice for two nuns arrested under controversial charges. With rising concerns over religious freedoms, this incident has sparked widespread political dialogue. Will the Chhattisgarh government heed these calls for justice?
Key Takeaways
- Call for Justice: Political leaders are advocating for a thorough investigation into the arrests of two nuns.
- Allegations of Harassment: There are claims that the charges may stem from false accusations.
- Religious Freedom Concerns: The incident raises questions about the treatment of religious minorities in India.
- Political Solidarity: Leaders across party lines are showing support for the nuns.
- Need for Evidence: The importance of substantiating allegations with credible evidence is emphasized.
Agartala/Shillong, Aug 2 (NationPress) Following the appeal from Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, the leader of the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), called on Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Saturday to guarantee fair justice for two Catholic nuns who were detained on July 25 at the Durg railway station in the state.
The TMP serves as an ally to the BJP government in Tripura.
The nuns, Preethi Mary and Vandana Francis from Kerala, along with a person named Sukaman Mandavi, were arrested at the Durg railway station after a complaint lodged by a local Bajrang Dal leader, who accused them of "forcibly converting" three girls from Narayanpur and of "trafficking".
In a social media post on platform X, Debbarma mentioned his meeting with the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister in Parliament on Friday, and on Saturday, he wrote to him about the "unfortunate incident involving the two nuns in his state".
Debbarma, a former royal descendant of Tripura, stated, "We inhabit a society where groups cannot target individuals without substantial evidence; the rule of law and Constitution must prevail."
In his correspondence, he indicated that statements from the BJP's Kerala unit suggest strong grounds for believing this may be a case of harassment and false allegations.
He urged the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister to acknowledge this issue and ensure a comprehensive, impartial investigation, saying, "It is crucial that those who selflessly serve society, particularly individuals from Christian minority communities, are not subjected to suffering due to misinformation or bias."
He added, "We trust that your office will treat this issue with the gravity it warrants and ensure that justice is achieved."
Previously, Chief Minister Sangma wrote to his Chhattisgarh counterpart, urging him to ensure a fair investigation and consider dismissing the charges against the two nuns from Kerala.
Sangma expressed his concern regarding the detention of Sister Vandana Francis and Sister Preethi Mary, who are connected to Fatima Hospital in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
The nuns have reportedly been charged under Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968 (forced conversion) and Section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (trafficking).
Additionally, Chief Minister Sangma called upon CM Sai to review and retract the charges against the two nuns.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has already reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting their intervention in the matter, as noted by CM Sangma in his letter to CM Sai.
In Mizoram, State Congress President Lal Thanzara criticized Chief Minister Lalduhoma and two MPs -- K Vanlalvena and Richard Vanlalhmangaiha -- for their "silence" regarding the arrest of the two nuns from Kerala in Chhattisgarh.
Thanzara stated in Aizawl on Friday that senior Congress leaders, including party General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal, party's Lok Sabha member from Meghalaya Saleng A. Sangma, and party MP from Kerala's Wayanad Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have protested against the "arbitrary" arrest and expressed their support for the nuns.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The arrests raise significant questions about religious freedoms and the integrity of legal processes in India. While allegations of forced conversion and trafficking are serious, it is essential that all claims be substantiated with evidence. The voices advocating for justice reflect the need for a fair investigation, ensuring that the principles of justice and human rights are upheld for all individuals, irrespective of their faith.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the charges against the nuns?
The nuns were charged under the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act for forced conversion and trafficking under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Who has intervened in the case?
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking intervention.
What is the position of the Meghalaya CM on this issue?
Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma has urged Chhattisgarh CM to ensure a fair investigation and reconsider the charges against the nuns.
Who is the leader of the Tipra Motha Party?
The leader of the Tipra Motha Party is Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma.
What has been the reaction of the Congress party?
State Congress President Lal Thanzara criticized local leaders for their silence on the issue and emphasized the party's support for the nuns.
