Kerala nun rape case: Special investigation team to file chargesheet against Bishop Franco Mulakkal

The Special investigation team probing allegations against Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal will submit the charge sheet at the Court in Kerala's Pala today, in connection with the nun-rape case.

In September, Mulakkal -- head of the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar, Punjab -- was arrested in Tripunithura after three days of questioning in the case where he was accused of repeatedly raping a senior nun between 2014 to 2016.

The nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions.

The nun also said she had to approach the police as church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman.

However, the bishop denied the charges.

Mulakkal is currently out on bail granted by Kerala high court on condition that he will not enter the state except for appearing before the probe officer.

The conditions are applicable until the charge sheet is filed.

Earlier in March, five nuns affiliated with the Missionaries of Jesus convent at Kuruvilangad approached Kottayam Superintendent of police to submit a petition seeking a speedy submission of the charge sheet against Bishop Mulakkal.

In their plea, nuns had questioned the reason behind the delay in filing the charge sheet. They also stated that as they are the witnesses the delay is causing they immense pressure.