Catholic nuns attacked in Madhya Pradesh

Five Roman Catholic nuns belonging to the Fransiscan Clarist Congregation (FCC) were attacked by Hindu extremists on October 25 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

According to a Christian news source, the sisters who were conducting a cottage prayer meeting at their driver's house were attacked by a group of men who barged in with sticks and severely hurt the Franciscan clarets sisters.

"The incident took place at around 8.30 pm. A mob allegedly led by Mr. Mehra, Mr. Shivcharan and Manju began to beat them falsely accusing them of attempt to convert,” said Madhya Pradesh Catholic spokesperson Fr Anand Muttungal.

The sisters who were beaten are Sr Jincy (40), Sr Sayujia (27), Sr Pavitra (26), Sr Sweta (26) and Sr Anna Maria (27). “All of them are injured, the condition of Sr. Jincy is said to be serious with head injuries. She is still in the hospital,” Fr Anand said.

However, on October 26 when the Christians approached the police to file an FIR, they were astonished by the refusal. The Additional S.P and CSP Mr Parasor alleged to have threatened the Christians of dire consequences if they advanced to file an FIR.

Later the police who were reluctant to file an FIR sprang into action on knowledge that the Christians were planning on a hunger strike on October 27.

“Around 8 pm the DIG and SP Indore spoke to us and assured us of immediate action. They also requested to withdraw the hunger strike planned for 27th October. Police immediately sprang in to action," said Fr Anand Muttungal.