Interview: Odisha-based Priest-Lawyer Fr. Ajay Singh Slams Early Release of Graham Staines' Killer

Father Ajay Kumar Singh is a Catholic priest, human rights activist, and lawyer from Kandhamal district in Odisha. He is widely recognised for his tireless advocacy on behalf of the victims of the 2008 anti-Christian violence in Kandhamal. A survivor of the violence himself, Father Singh went on to pursue a law degree and successfully completed it in 2015. Since then, he has been practising as an advocate in Odisha.

Currently based in Bhubaneswar, he is pursuing a PhD in Law while also mentoring college and university students, supporting them in their academic and career journeys.

In an exclusive interview with Catholic Connect, Fr. Ajay Kumar shared his thoughts on the premature release of Mahendra Hembram, who was convicted for the gruesome murder of Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two sons in 1999. He also reflected on the importance of justice in society, the distinction between forgiveness and reconciliation, and much more.

Excerpts:

Reporter: The release of Mahendra Hembram, convicted in the brutal 1999 murder of Australian missionary Graham Staines, has deeply shocked many in Odisha. As a lawyer, what message would you like to convey to the judiciary and government regarding this move to release Hembram?

Reporter: This was one of the rarest of rare cases—a brutal murder of an innocent social worker and his two minor sons; burning them alive in a van. Such a violent act is a crime against humanity. If society fails to punish the perpetrators with just consequences, it risks encouraging others to commit similar atrocities.

What’s more alarming is the celebratory welcome given to Hembram after his release, as if he were a hero returning home after achieving a great feat. This sends a dangerous message and emboldens those who propagate hate-based violence. The government and judiciary must understand that justice in such cases is not only about punishment but also about sending a strong deterrent message. Hembram was a close associate of Dara Singh, the main accused in the murder of Graham Staines. Any step towards his release would only derail the fragile peace in society.

Reporter: When Samundar Singh murdered Sister Rani Maria, her family not only forgave him but actively advocated for his release. To people who ask why the murderers of Graham Staines can't be treated in a similar manner, what would you say?

Reporter: Forgiveness is a personal, spiritual act, and indeed, Graham Staines’ wife has forgiven the perpetrators of his murder. However, we must understand that crimes of such nature are viewed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita as violations against the state and society, not just private grievances. Family members of victims can offer personal forgiveness, but they cannot absolve an offender of the legal consequences of the crime.

Moreover, in Sister Rani Maria’s case, her killer, Samundar Singh, showed genuine remorse and sought reconciliation. In contrast, those convicted in the murder of Graham Staines have not expressed any genuine regret. Dara Singh, in particular, continues to justify his actions under the guise of patriotism.

Reporter: You have personally witnessed the 2008 anti-Christian violence in Kandhamal. What is life like now for the average Christian there?

Reporter: Life in Kandhamal is still marked by a deep sense of fear and trauma. Memories of the 2008 violence still exist in the minds of several people in the area. Disturbingly, this year, for the first time in 16 years, victims, survivors, and their families were not allowed to publicly observe Kandhamal Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering the victims of the 2007-08 violence. That says a lot about the worsening situation in the region.

Reporter: How do you reconcile the Church’s teaching on unconditional forgiveness with the reality of dealing with unrepentant individuals?

Reporter: Forgiveness and reconciliation stand as pillars of Christian teaching. But reconciliation also requires truth. Truth and reconciliation are closely intertwined and essential for healing and moving forward after historical injustices. You can't reconcile with lies or with people who continue to justify wrongdoing. Forgiveness—especially in the context of reconciliation—demands truth and genuine remorse. Without them, forgiveness loses its meaning, and reconciliation can't happen.

Victims or their families may choose to forgive an offender unconditionally, but justice still demands accountability. The justice system exists to deter crime and correct behaviour. Releasing unrepentant offenders risks perpetuating further violence.

By Steve Antao