New Delhi: After nine agonizing days behind bars, the two Keralite nuns arrested in Chhattisgarh have finally been released, marking a moment of relief for their community and supporters across the country. The sisters, who had been embroiled in a controversial case involving allegations of human trafficking and forced religious conversion, were granted bail by the NIA Special Court in Bilaspur.
The court's verdict came with standard legal safeguards: each nun was required to furnish two sureties of ₹50,000, surrender her passport, and remain within India until further notice. Despite the charges levied against them, the bail was not conditional upon any extraordinary restrictions, signaling a measured response from the judiciary.
The nuns were seen leaving the Durg Central Jail accompanied by the Mother Superior and were immediately taken under police protection to ensure their safety en route to their monastery. The release sparked emotional reactions, not just from their fellow sisters and families, but also from political figures and civil society leaders who had rallied behind the cause.
BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas visited the jail to meet the nuns upon their release. The presence of leaders from across the political spectrum highlighted the significance and sensitivity surrounding the case, which had sparked nationwide protests and interfaith concerns.
Their lawyer, speaking to the media, expressed faith in the judicial system and noted that the bail conditions reflect the court's confidence in the sisters’ integrity. “The court examined the facts, the background of the sisters, and the lack of concrete evidence before arriving at this decision. We are hopeful that this marks the beginning of a complete vindication,” he said.
The arrest had sparked a larger conversation about the use of laws related to religious conversion in India, with many alleging misuse to target Christian missionaries. As the legal battle continues, the focus now shifts to quashing the charges altogether an outcome many in the Christian community are hoping for.
For now, however, the sisters are back where they belong within their spiritual fold, welcomed with tears, prayers, and a collective sigh of relief.