In a shocking development in the Kerala nun rape case, Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, a key eyewitness, was found dead in Jalandhar on Monday. The case pertains to the allegations of rape of a nun by Bishop Franco Mulakkal, who heads the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar. Notably, Kuriakose had deposed in the favour of the nun. It is currently unclear whether it was a case of suicide or murder.
Sister Anupama made a sensation charge. “He (Kuriakose) was one of the prime witnesses from Jalandhar. He was in support of us…There was harassment done to him…The fathers and nun in Jalandhar say it seems like a heart attack but at the same time, foul play cannot be ruled out.”
Meanwhile, DSP Dasuya AR Sharma said that they are waiting for the post-mortem report to ascertain the reason of Kuriakose’s death. “He used to live at St Paul’s Church in Dasuya. He was found dead there. He was 62. The matter will be investigated. I have been informed that no injuries have been found,” Sharma said.
The DSP added that the initial report suggested that Kuriakose vomited over the bed. Police reportedly found blood pressure tablets at the spot.
Catholic Bishop Franco Mulakkal, who was held on September 21 on charges of raping a nun, walked out of the Pala sub-jail near Kottayam on October 16, a day after being granted bail by the Kerala High Court. As soon as he came out of the jail, the bishop was granted hero’s welcome.
During the course of interrogation, it was alleged that Mulakkal was trying to intimidate the victim using his influence. He is said to be well connected in the circles of power and is friends with some key politicians as well.
