Chief Ministers Clash Over Religious Freedom: The Nun Arrest Controversy

Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma urged Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai to investigate and reconsider charges against two Catholic nuns from Kerala, accused of human trafficking and forced conversion. The nuns were arrested on claims of converting and trafficking three women. Sangma calls the allegations false, demanding justice and respect for religious freedoms.

In a growing controversy highlighting the sensitive issue of religious freedom, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has called on Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai to ensure justice for two Catholic nuns from Kerala arrested over allegations of human trafficking and forced religious conversion.

Sister Vandana Francis and Sister Preethy Mary were arrested alongside Sukhman Mandavi at Durg railway station, accused by a Bajrang Dal functionary of forcibly converting three tribal women under the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968 and trafficking laws. Sangma described these allegations as false and a case of harassment.

The matter has drawn national attention, with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India appealing for intervention from PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, while the Catholic community in Meghalaya stands in support, urging a respectful resolution that honors constitutional rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)