'Intolerance!' Malankara Orthodox Church condemns nuns' arrest

Kottayam: The episcopal synod of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church has condemned the arrest of Kerala nuns in Chhattisgarh, saying that the incident has unfortunately tarnished the pride of our country in the eyes of the world.

In a statement, the synod reminded that India is distinguished by its diversity and the country embraces it. However, secularism in the country is facing a serious threat, he said.

He said that the nuns were questioned by religious fanatics in the presence of police, and they were framed and imprisoned on false charges of human trafficking and forced conversion. The incident is another example of the widespread misuse of the anti-conversion law.

He said that it is the Christians’ duty to reach out to the helpless, and churches are carrying out unparalleled missionary work among the tribal and Dalit communities. The Christian community is performing a remarkable mission in many areas, including education and healthcare. Those who view all this with a hateful attitude are undermining the progress of this country, the synod said.

According to the synod, the authorities should be ready to take action against extremists who are projecting hate. He reminded that the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India should be protected. The synod, which expressed concern over the ongoing persecution of Christians in various parts of the country, also demanded that justice be ensured for the nuns arrested in Chhattisgarh.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said the Catholic nuns from the state were jailed in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh based on a "fake" complaint by Bajrang Dal activists, and that the incident revealed the true colours of the Sangh Parivar.