Sanal Edamaruku, a prominent Indian rationalist and founder of Rationalist International, was recently detained at Warsaw Modlin Airport in Poland on March 28, following an Interpol Red Notice issued by Indian authorities. Currently based in Finland, Edamaruku has been living in self-imposed exile since 2012 after being charged with blasphemy in India.
The blasphemy charges date back to an incident in Mumbai, where Edamaruku investigated a so-called miracle involving water dripping from a crucifix. His scientific explanation—that it was caused by a sewage leak—angered the Catholic Church, leading to legal action under India’s blasphemy laws. Since then, Edamaruku has maintained that returning to India would put his life at risk, citing past violence against other rationalist thinkers in the country.
The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs has confirmed awareness of his arrest, and concerns have been raised by Rationalist International over the implications for freedom of expression and the safety of those who challenge religious orthodoxy.
Apart from his activism, Edamaruku has had a rich academic and cultural background. A Jawaharlal Nehru University alumnus, he has worked in journalism, directed non-traditional Kathakali plays, and even led institutions like the Kerala School and International Centre for Kathakali in Delhi.
His arrest has sparked renewed debate around blasphemy laws, human rights, and the safety of dissenting voices. Supporters worldwide are now calling for transparency and fair treatment in his case.
