Raipur: Moments of deep emotion and silent prayer unfolded in front of the Bilaspur NIA Court on Friday as news broke of bail being granted to the two Malayali Catholic nuns arrested in Chhattisgarh. What had been a tense wait for days turned into scenes of weeping and thanksgiving as Sister Vandana Francis and Sister Preethi Mary were cleared for release.
As the court pronounced its order, the brother of one of the nuns, overwhelmed with emotion, broke down in tears outside the court complex. Priests and well-wishers from the Diocese of Raipur, who had gathered in solidarity, rushed to comfort him and the grieving family members who had been hoping and praying for justice.
The air was heavy with relief. Supporters held rosaries and folded hands, some whispering prayers, others embracing one another in silent acknowledgment of the ordeal that had unfolded since the arrests on July 25. The family members, speaking to reporters outside the court, said they were thankful the truth was finally being recognized and expressed hope that the suffering endured by the sisters would not be forgotten.
Sister Vandana Francis, a native of Udayagiri parish in Thalassery, Kannur, and Sister Preethi Mary, from Elavur parish in Angamaly, belong to the Sisters of Mary Immaculate of Assisi congregation. They were arrested along with three girls on allegations of human trafficking and forced religious conversion charges their supporters and many religious leaders called baseless and a misrepresentation of missionary work.
Bail was granted with conditions two sureties of ₹50,000 each and mandatory submission of passports to the court. The nuns are expected to walk out of prison later today, marking the end of nine harrowing days behind bars.
Prominent political figures, including MPs from Kerala and representatives from multiple parties, were present at the court ahead of the verdict. Their presence signaled both solidarity and a broader concern about the implications of the case on religious freedom and the rights of missionaries working in underprivileged areas.
Though justice took its time, the scenes outside the court served as a powerful reminder of faith, resilience, and the enduring strength of those who live out their calling amidst trials.