Church Leader Condemns Arrest of Catholic Nuns in Chhattisgarh

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Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, has raised concerns following the arrest of two Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh. The arrests were made under allegations relating to human trafficking and unlawful religious conversion. Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing, with no further public disclosure at this stage.

Local media reports indicate the nuns were taken into custody after complaints that they were allegedly involved in activities violating laws on human trafficking and religious conversions. These laws are enforced in several Indian states to prevent coerced or fraudulent religious practices. The officials involved have not released detailed findings pending further inquiry.

In a public statement, Mathews III urged law enforcement to act impartially and based on verified evidence. He warned against the influence of extremist elements and called for a balanced approach to maintain communal harmony and uphold legal due process. His remarks reflect ongoing concerns within segments of the Christian community regarding the application of conversion-related laws.

He further appealed to both state and central governments to protect India’s democratic framework, which guarantees the right to freedom of religion under Article 25 of the Constitution. He emphasized that citizens must be able to practice and propagate their faith within the boundaries of the law, without fear or intimidation.

Mathews III also called for strict action against groups that he believes may be fostering religious intolerance. While not naming any specific organizations, he stressed that maintaining India’s social fabric requires vigilance against any actions that could disrupt peace or incite divisions.

The case has contributed to the broader debate on anti-conversion laws, which are currently active in several Indian states. Supporters of these laws argue they are essential to prevent exploitative or deceptive religious practices. Critics, on the other hand, express concern that such laws could be misapplied to target specific religious communities.

As the legal process unfolds, observers from various faith-based and civil society groups are monitoring the situation. The outcome of the investigation is expected to shape ongoing conversations about religious freedom, legal enforcement, and the interpretation of constitutional protections in a multi-faith society.