Thalassery: Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany has extended his gratitude to the central government for ensuring the release of the Malayali nuns arrested in Chhattisgarh and called for a cessation of protests, while firmly underlining the Church's non-political stand and expressing concern over the misuse of anti-conversion laws across India.
Addressing the media on Saturday, Bishop Pamplany said the Church’s intervention was solely to uphold the rights and dignity of the women religious who were unjustly arrested. “We took to the streets not for political gain but to ensure our sisters could return to a life of service and faith without fear. Our struggle was for justice and nothing more,” he clarified.
The Bishop acknowledged the central government's role in granting bail and viewed it as a step in the right direction. “We appreciate the zeal shown to correct the mistake even if it was a mistake already made. We only hope that such incidents will never repeat. With the bail now granted, the Church is ending its protest initiatives tied to this particular case.”
However, his gratitude was tempered by firm observations on recent online behavior by political groups. Referring to the controversial cartoon posted by BJP Chhattisgarh’s official 'X' account depicting nuns in a deeply offensive light Pamplany responded with measured clarity. “We’ve seen such content widely circulated on social media. Whether it was officially sanctioned or not is unclear. But such portrayals deeply wound the sentiments of a peaceful community.”
Unapologetically bold, the Bishop said, “We do not hesitate to speak truthfully about any political party, including the BJP. We are not aligned with anyone politically, but we will always call a spade a spade. That is not political aggression it is moral clarity.”
Turning to a broader issue, Bishop Pamplany drew attention to the dangerous trend emerging in several Indian states where laws meant to prevent forced religious conversions are being misinterpreted or weaponized against Christians. “What we are witnessing is not justice but a targeted pattern of suspicion and fear. These laws are increasingly being used to harass innocent believers and missionaries. The Church is facing a crisis born from legal overreach and prejudice,” he warned.
The bishop called for urgent dialogue between civil society, religious communities, and lawmakers. “We need sensible conversations and fair solutions, not witch-hunts. Let’s not criminalize compassion or convert kindness into crime.”
His statements came hours after two nuns were granted bail by the NIA Special Court in Bilaspur, following nine days of judicial custody. While the verdict has brought relief, the Church remains alert and watchful. Bishop Pamplany’s message stands as both a call for peace and a warning against systemic injustice.