Kerala nun rape case: Hearing on September 24
In the latest development in the alleged rape case of a nun by the bishop, its hearing has been posted to September 24, ANI reports. On Wednesday, the Kerala police sent summons to accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal to appear before the court on September 19. Earlier, in an affidavit, the police told Kerala HC the nun was repeatedly raped by Mulakkal for two years.
Backstory: Nun alleges Mulakkal raped her many times
Earlier this year, the victim nun alleged Mulakkal raped her over 13 times in the past two years. She said he called her to a residence on the pretext of work and violated her. The nun alleged she informed the church authorities about the rape, but no action was taken against Mulakkal. After being let down by the institution, the victim approached the police.
Meanwhile, nun's brother alleges Mulakkal tried to bribe him
The Church's laxity to take action against the accused sparked nationwide outrage. Amid the mounting pressure on police and authorities, the victim's brother revealed Mulakkal tried to bribe him. He said Mulakkal's relatives approached a friend of his, saying they he will pay Rs. 5 crore if the complaint is withdrawn. Notably, Mulakkal has still not been arrested.
Nuns from Kerala support victim in her fight against Mulakkal
The nun has got support from her colleagues, many of them have been protesting about the inaction in the case. Separately, the victim wrote a letter to Apostolic Nunciature - the representative of the Holy See in India, saying protecting the accused will lead to the Church losing its credibility. In the seven-page letter, she spoke about the case's adverse effects on the institution.
However, Mulakkal maintains he isn't guilty
Defending himself, Mulakkal said, "I feel there are people who are against the church, they are using these sisters. This is a conspiracy and several people are taking advantage of the situation, they are putting sisters at the forefront."
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