Catholic Nursing College Principal Falsely Accused of Conversion in Chhattisgarh

Kunkuri, Chhattisgarh, April 4, 2025 – A student of Holy Cross Nursing College, Kunkuri, in Chhattisgarh, has accused Principal Sr. Bincy Joseph of pressuring her to convert to Christianity. The student lodged a complaint with the Collector and SSP Jashpur on April 2. The student claims that after refusing, she faced harassment. However, in an interview with Catholic Connect, Sr. Bincy dismissed the allegations as false and baseless. She also categorically denied the allegation made by the student that she was asked to join a Catholic religious congregation and become a nun.

During the interview, Sr. Bincy clarified that the student was a GNM final-year trainee whose regular classes had ended. Since January, the student had stopped attending hospital duties, appearing only for her final theory examination and skipping essential practical assessments. College staff had reported her absence to the principal in December and January, prompting Sr. Bincy to request the student to bring her parents for a discussion, which the student never did.

Sr. Bincy further stated that when the student visited the college two days ago, she was advised to complete her mandatory hospital training. While the student initially agreed, she later refused to take the exam or attend ward duties. The principal emphasised that the college follows the Indian Nursing Council rules, which requires at least 80% attendance in both theory and practicals for the award of a certificate of course completion. The student had only completed 32% of her practical requirements—far below the required minimum. Despite this, she was allowed to appear for the theory examination. However, Sr. Bincy clarified that she could not sign off on the student’s completion records due to her failure to meet the final year obligations.

Addressing the student's mother’s claims that she was frequently contacted about minor issues, Sr Bincy refuted the allegation, stating that she had only called her twice regarding serious concerns. She mentioned that she had discussed complaints from external sources about the student, as well as her repeated violation of college regulations. As per college rules, commuting students must adhere to strict attendance and conduct guidelines, which were conveyed to the student's parents.

Sr. Bincy also noted that, despite the formal complaint by the student, no government authorities have contacted the college for an inquiry. However, media personnel had visited the institution yesterday evening, and Sr. Bincy provided clarification regarding the controversy.

When asked whether legal action would be taken against the student, Sr. Bincy stated that no decision had been made yet. She emphasised that the college remains committed to the student’s education and future but expects a retraction of the false allegations, which she said were damaging to both her reputation and the institution.

"Our priority is always the education and well-being of our students," Sr. Bincy asserted. "We are dedicated to training skilled, compassionate nurses and upholding integrity and fairness. Allegations like these go against the values we stand for. We encourage students and parents to trust our commitment to their academic and professional success."

As the controversy unfolds, the college administration plans to meet with the Collector to present their side of the story.

By Catholic Connect Reporter