BJP's Assurance on Chhattisgarh Nun Arrest Sparks Debate

BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated on Friday that the recent arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh over allegations of human trafficking and forced conversion stemmed from a 'misunderstanding.' He assured that the nuns are expected to be released on bail shortly.

Chandrasekhar revealed this after a meeting with Archbishop of Trichur Andrews Thazhath, the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI). He relayed assurances from the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister that the nuns would be granted bail and that the state government would not oppose their pleas.

Highlighting that the incident was part of a judicial process and warning against political exploitation, Chandrasekhar explained that the misunderstanding arose from a failure to comply with a law in Chhattisgarh requiring young women changing districts for work to register with the authorities. Meanwhile, Archbishop Thazhath emphasized the Church's hope for the nuns' release and expressed concern over rising attacks on Christians.

(With inputs from agencies.)