Nun’s rape case: Kerala HC seeks probe details

The Kerala High Court on Monday asked the state government to explain details of action taken against the Jalandhar Bishop who is facing sexual assault charges even as the National Commission for Women issued a notice to Kerala legislator PC George who verbally abused the victim, to appear before it on Sept 20.

Two petitions came up before the court - one filed by the victim’s relatives and another by an activist - seeking a court-monitored probe against accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal. Hearing both petitions together, a bench headed by Chief Justice Rishikesh Roy observed that investigating officer had filed an affidavit in the court on Aug 13, saying after initial inquiry allegations against the bishop were found true and asked the government what actions were taken after this.

When the government said investigation was in final stages, the court observed that nobody was above the law of the land and all were equal before it. The court also asked the government to explain steps taken to protect the victim and witnesses. The nun had earlier complained that she was facing serious threat to her life. The court has directed the government to file its reply by Thursday.

In her complaint, the 43-yearold nun belonging to Missionaries of Jesus Congregation alleged that the bishop had sexually abused her after summoning her on the pretext of discussing an important issue in 2014. She said in next two years, she was raped 13 times by him. The nun said she made a complaint to the church in last December and was forced to file a police complaint in July after it failed to take action against the bishop.

The National Commission for Women has issued a summons to independent legislator PC George who verbally abused the victim and cast aspersions on her. The MLA had called the victim a ‘prostitute’, saying why had she waited till the 13th attempt. He was asked to appear before the commission personally on Sept 20.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: