Thiruvananthapuram: In the wake of the much-anticipated bail granted to two Malayali Catholic nuns imprisoned for nine days in Chhattisgarh, political voices from across the spectrum have poured in with their reactions among them, BJP leader Kummanam Rajasekharan, who hailed the decision as a moment of justice and solidarity.
Kummanam Rajasekharan described the development as one that will be “happily welcomed by people from all sections,” emphasizing that the Bharatiya Janata Party stood firmly by the values of justice and humanitarian duty, without indulging in any political opportunism. “The BJP acted with moral responsibility. Our leaders responded without delay, with legal action rooted in a humanitarian approach. We did not waste a moment,” Kummanam said.
He stressed that there was no internal conflict within the BJP at the national level regarding Kerala leaders’ swift response. "We took initiative because we believe it is our duty to ensure justice is done irrespective of the faith or background of those in distress," he added. Drawing a contrast, he criticized Congress for not intervening in similar cases during their governance in Chhattisgarh.
In its official reaction, the BJP in Kerala reiterated its commitment to stand as a “support and shade” for Malayalis, transcending religion or politics. “This verdict reflects the success of consistent intervention by BJP leaders at various levels. It is another example of the party standing by those who suffer injustice,” read a BJP statement.
Sisters Vandana Francis and Preethi Mary hailing from Udayagiri parish in Kannur and Elavoor parish in Angamaly respectively were granted bail by the Bilaspur NIA court, presided over by Principal Sessions Judge Sirajuddin Qureshi. The court set standard conditions: two sureties of ₹50,000 each, surrender of passports, and a bar on foreign travel.
The sisters, who were accused of forced religious conversion and human trafficking, were arrested by the Railway Police on July 25 in Durg. Their arrest drew widespread criticism, legal scrutiny, and political intervention.
Cherian, brother of Sister Vandana, expressed relief after the verdict: “We were anxious till the last moment. But justice prevailed. Everyone from politicians to civil society intervened. We are deeply grateful.”
Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty also welcomed the court's decision, calling it a partial but significant relief. “Though justice was delayed, it has finally arrived. Now the false case must be completely quashed. Even the girls who were with the nuns have publicly stated that the allegations are entirely baseless,” he said.
He highlighted Kerala’s collective effort: “The state government stood united in supporting the nuns. We extended both political and legal help. A formal letter was sent to the Prime Minister urging Central intervention.”
Minister Sivankutty went further to demand legal action against those who “insulted and hunted down” the nuns women known in their communities for a life of service. “These are not criminals. They are caregivers and missionaries. The real criminals are those who tried to defame them with fabricated charges,” he asserted.
As the released nuns return to the quiet of their convent life under police protection, the larger battle for truth, justice, and the protection of religious workers continues both inside and outside the courtroom.