KCBC Vigilance Commission Condemns Arrest of Kerala Nuns, Alleges Growing Religious Intolerance

Thiruvananthapuram, July 28, 2025: The Vigilance Commission of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) has issued a strong statement condemning the arrest of two Catholic religious sisters — Sr. Vandhana Francis and Sr. Preethi Mary — in Durg, Chhattisgarh, on 25 July. The nuns were reportedly detained based on false allegations of religious conversion and human trafficking made by members of the Bajrang Dal.

In a public statement, the KCBC Vigilance Commission expressed “deep anguish” over the arrest and criticised what it described as a “distressing and deeply troubling pattern” of hostility towards Christians and missionary personnel in several Indian states.

The Commission pointed to the growing misuse of anti-conversion laws by extremist groups, warning that such actions threaten the constitutional rights of religious minorities and violate the secular principles of Indian democracy.

“We affirm that Catholic missionaries do not engage in forced conversions. Our service to society — particularly in education, healthcare, and social welfare — is driven by compassion and a commitment to the common good,” the statement read.

Referring to Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the freedom to profess, practise, and propagate one’s religion, the Commission said that criminalising the right to religious belief is a direct violation of constitutional values.

The Commission also demanded that those responsible for the sisters' arrest and the spreading of false accusations be brought to justice, and called for legal and administrative safeguards to prevent such misuse of power in the future.

Highlighting a surge in incidents of violence, harassment, and vandalism targeting Christians, the Commission urged the Prime Minister, the Union Home Minister, and the Union Minister for Minority Affairs to respond decisively.

“The Central Government must not remain silent but must act as a guardian of constitutional rights, communal harmony, and justice for all citizens, regardless of their religious background,” the statement urged.

The KCBC Vigilance Commission called on authorities to take firm steps to curb religious fanaticism, prevent mob violence, and uphold India’s secular and inclusive character.

KCBC Vigilance Commission Condemns Arrest of Kerala Nuns, Alleges Growing Religious Intolerance

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