New Delhi: The Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed gratitude to the Centre and the Chhattisgarh government following the release on bail of Malayali nuns Sister Vandana Francis and Sister Preeti Mary, who were imprisoned for nine days on allegations of human trafficking and religious conversion.
CBCI Secretary General Archbishop Anil Couto, in a strongly worded statement, welcomed the court’s decision as a significant relief to a disheartened and anxious Christian community. “This is not just a legal development but a moment of reassurance that constitutional justice is still alive,” the Archbishop stated.
Reiterating the CBCI’s commitment to peaceful religious service, Archbishop Couto affirmed that missionary work will continue unshaken. “We are not retreating. Despite all adversities, we will continue to serve the marginalised and uphold the spirit of compassion and dignity,” he said.
The CBCI also made it clear that legal recourse is being pursued to quash the fabricated case entirely. Archbishop Couto did not mince words when he labelled the Bajrang Dal as an anti-social group, holding them responsible for harassing the nuns and intimidating the young women who accompanied them. He said that a formal complaint will be filed against those involved in the “mob-style vigilantism” witnessed outside the police station.
He added that the CBCI will soon approach the Prime Minister directly to voice its concern over the misuse of the Prohibition of Conversion Act, which he said is increasingly being weaponised to harass innocent members of the Christian clergy and laity.
Meanwhile, the CBCI remained silent on political claims over who helped secure the nuns’ bail, stating, “We know who truly stood with us. But this is not the time to play political games we thank those who acted in the spirit of justice.”
The Bilaspur NIA Court had granted bail to the two nuns on August 1, subject to conditions including two sureties and a bond of ₹50,000 each, along with a restriction on foreign travel. The nuns were arrested by the Railway Police in Durg on July 25, triggering widespread protests across Kerala and support from across denominational lines.
With growing calls for complete dismissal of the case, the CBCI’s statement signals the Church’s resolve to confront systemic targeting and to continue its mission without fear.