Kerala Nuns Accused in Chhattisgarh Trafficking Case Released on Bail

In a development that has stirred debate across legal and religious circles, a Chhattisgarh court has granted bail to two nuns from Kerala who were arrested on charges related to human trafficking and alleged forced religious conversion.

The two nuns, affiliated with a Christian missionary organization, were taken into custody in June following a complaint lodged in the tribal-dominated Bastar region. Authorities alleged that the women had trafficked young tribal girls under the guise of providing them education and shelter, only to pressure them into religious conversion.

The case sparked widespread political and religious discourse, with Christian groups calling the arrests "politically motivated" and rights activists arguing that tribal communities are being exploited by both religious and political interests.

The court observed that there was insufficient prima facie evidence to deny bail at this stage of investigation. The judge emphasized that the right to a fair trial and the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” must be upheld, even in cases of serious allegations.

Advocates representing the nuns argued that the women were engaged purely in social service and had not violated any laws. “They have dedicated their lives to uplifting the poor, not converting them. The allegations are baseless and driven by agenda,” said defense lawyer Thomas Kuriakose.

Meanwhile, officials from the Chhattisgarh police stated that investigations are still ongoing and the bail will not affect the progress of the case. "We are continuing our probe and gathering testimonies. The bail order is a legal process, not a verdict," said a senior officer.

This case has once again put the spotlight on the thin line between charity and conversion in India, particularly in tribal regions where socio-economic vulnerabilities make communities more susceptible to both exploitation and external influence.