Activists seek CM's intervention in action against nuns

A section of writers and social activists urged the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to initiate steps to ensure protection for the nuns who are key the witnesses in the rape case against former bishop of Jalandhar Franco Mulakkal.

A letter, signed by 55 activists, to the Chief Minister, alleged that vindictive actions were being initiated against the nun at the behest of Franco. They expressed concerns that attempts were being made to send away the nuns who supported the rape victim by issuing them canonical warnings and transfer orders. They urged the government to initiate immediate action to stall the moves. The letter was signed by noted personalities from various sectors, including poet K Sachidanandan.

The nuns, who have recently transferred, had alleged of attempts to sabotage the rape case. They also wrote to the Chief Minister seeking protection.

Sister Neena Rose of the St Francis Mission Home at Kuravilangad in Kottayam district was recently issued a notice by the church asking her to appear at Jalandhar and give an explanation to various charges. Sister Anupama, Alphy, Josephine and Ancitta of the convent were recently directed to strictly abide by transfer orders issued last year. Another sister, Lucy Kalappura of the Mananthavady diocese in North Kerala district Wayanad, was also issued notices seeking an explanation for various charges, including talking to the media against the church.

Franco is accused of raping a nun several times between 2014 and 2016. He was arrested by the police after a stir by nuns and social leaders in front of Kerala High Court last year. He was later released on bail.