Sat Aug 02 20:29:10 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text and a news article based on it:

**Summary:**

Raphael Thattil, the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, has welcomed the bail granted to two nuns arrested in Chhattisgarh on charges of human trafficking and forced conversion. While relieved by their release, he emphasizes that their initial arrest represents a violation of India’s secular and democratic principles. He affirms the Church’s commitment to pursuing justice, including seeking the quashing of the charges and holding accountable those responsible for the alleged constitutional rights violations. He also underscores the broader need to protect religious freedom and minority rights in India.

**News Article:**

**Syro-Malabar Church Leader Condemns Arrest of Nuns, Vows to Pursue Justice**

**KOCHI, August 3, 2025** – Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church has expressed relief at the release on bail of two nuns previously arrested by Chhattisgarh police on charges of human trafficking and forced conversion. However, he strongly condemned their initial arrest, calling it “a disturbing breach of India’s secular and democratic principles.”

In a statement released early this morning, the Archbishop stated that while the bail provides solace, the Church remains committed to achieving full justice for the nuns. He emphasized that “it does not mark the end of our quest for justice.”

The Church is now demanding the quashing of the charges against the nuns, which they deem “malicious and factually baseless.” Furthermore, the Archbishop is calling for legal proceedings against those responsible for violating the nuns’ constitutional rights.

“The immediate next step must be the quashing of the charge sheet, which is both malicious and factually baseless. Legal proceedings should also be initiated against those responsible for violating the constitutional rights of these innocent citizens,” the statement read.

Archbishop Thattil also highlighted the incident as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to safeguard religious freedom and protect the rights of minorities within India, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The case is expected to continue as the Church pursues further legal action.

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