Pinarayi Vijayan Condemns ‘False Case’ Against Nuns, Urges PM’s Intervention

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Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has condemned the arrest of two Catholic nuns from Kerala in Chhattisgarh, calling it an unjust action based on false allegations. In a strongly worded statement, Vijayan alleged that the arrests were carried out following a complaint from members of the Bajrang Dal, a right-wing group affiliated with the Sangh Parivar.

According to Vijayan, the incident reflects a pattern of targeting religious minorities, particularly Christians, under the pretext of preventing forced religious conversions or trafficking. He said that the actions taken by law enforcement lacked justification and amounted to harassment of individuals engaged in legitimate religious and social work.

“This is yet another example of hostility shown towards members of the Christian faith,” Vijayan stated. “The nuns from Kerala were arrested based on fabricated accusations. Such actions threaten the secular character of our country and undermine the rights enshrined in the Constitution.”

The Chief Minister disclosed that his office had formally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking immediate intervention in the matter to ensure justice for the arrested individuals. He also expressed concern over the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister’s reported defense of the arrests, saying such responses further marginalize minority communities.

Vijayan warned that this incident could not be viewed in isolation, and said it must be seen in the broader context of increasing pressure faced by minority groups in some regions of India. He added that aggressive political and religious rhetoric has contributed to a climate where peaceful members of society face legal action without a sufficient basis.

The case has reignited a national discussion about the application and misuse of laws related to religious conversion and human trafficking. Rights groups have often pointed out that these laws are vulnerable to being used against missionaries, pastors, or charitable workers, especially in tribal or rural areas.

Vijayan concluded his remarks by urging all democratic and secular-minded individuals and institutions to stand against what he termed “divisive efforts” that threaten India’s pluralistic heritage. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the rights of all citizens, regardless of faith, and ensuring that the rule of law is applied fairly and without bias.