Congress MP Venugopal Condemns Kerala Nuns’ Arrest in Chhattisgarh, Urges Centre’s Action

Swift Summary:

• Congress MP K.C. Venugopal raised concerns in the Lok Sabha regarding the arrest of two nuns, Preeta Mary and Vandana Francis, in Chhattisgarh on allegations of human trafficking and forced religious conversion.
• The nuns belong to the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate, a congregation offering palliative care to terminally ill cancer patients.
• They were arrested on July 25 at Durg Railway Station following a complaint by bajrang Dal member Ravi Nigam. The nuns were accompanying two local women from Chhattisgarh to Agra for nurse training.
• Opposition leaders,including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka gandhi Vadra,protested outside Parliament demanding their release and criticizing perceived persecution of minorities.
• Family members of the local women denied allegations of forced conversions and said they consented to traveling for professional opportunities.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The arrest has sparked debates over religious freedom and minority rights in India. Allegations against the nuns underline growing tensions between religious communities. It is indeed essential for authorities to ensure unbiased investigations into such incidents while safeguarding constitutional rights. Reports suggesting consent from families call into question the basis for accusations made by Bajrang Dal members. Protests lead by Congress highlight broader concerns around government accountability regarding minority welfare in tense communal contexts. Resolution requires careful legal scrutiny balanced against maintaining public harmony.Read more: The Hindu