Meghalaya CM Appeals for Justice in Nuns' Arrest Case

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has urged the Chhattisgarh government to conduct a fair investigation into the arrest of two Catholic nuns accused of human trafficking and forced conversion. The nuns, along with a third individual, were detained following a complaint from a Bajrang Dal member. Sangma has called the allegations false and has requested the revocation of charges, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of religious minorities. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India has also sought intervention from national leaders. This incident has sparked significant concern regarding constitutional rights and religious freedom.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 1, 2025, 18:19 IST

Call for Fair Investigation

On August 1, Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reached out to his counterpart in Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai, requesting a thorough and unbiased investigation into the recent arrest of two Catholic nuns from Kerala. The nuns were detained last week under serious allegations of human trafficking and forced religious conversion.

In his correspondence, Sangma expressed significant concern regarding the detention of Sister Vandana Francis and Sister Preethy Mary, who are affiliated with Fatima Hospital located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

The two nuns, along with a third individual named Sukhman Mandavi, were apprehended by the Government Railway Police (GRP) at Durg railway station in Chhattisgarh on July 25. Their arrest was prompted by a complaint from a Bajrang Dal member, who accused them of forcibly converting three tribal women from Narayanpur district and trafficking them.

Sangma's appeal comes in response to rising apprehensions from various groups regarding the incident, emphasizing the need for sensitivity, fairness, and the safeguarding of constitutional rights in such matters.

The nuns face charges under Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968 (pertaining to forced conversion) and Section 143 of the BNS (related to trafficking).

Describing the allegations as "false" and labeling the situation as a case of "harassment," Sangma urged the Chhattisgarh government to protect the rights of religious minorities and ensure that justice prevails.

He also called for a review and revocation of the charges against the nuns.

Additionally, Sangma noted that the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has already reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting their involvement in the situation.

In Meghalaya, Catholic Christians have also presented petitions to the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister, advocating for justice for the detained nuns.

Sangma expressed hope that the matter would be resolved in a way that honors constitutional principles and religious freedom.