Kochi: The Kerala Police moved to arrest Bishop Franco Mulakkal after they were convinced that the charge of rape raised against him by a nun was factual and that the cleric was indeed guilty. During interrogation that stretched to 23 hours over three days, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) raised with him 350 main and 500 subsidiary questions. However, reports say he hasn't admitted to the crime.
Incriminating facts
* The abused nun's medical examination report from the Kottayam Medical College Hospital.
* The in-camera statement of the nun recorded in front of the First-Class Judicial Magistrate, Changanassery. It has details such as the dates on which she was raped 13 times, and the locations where it happened.
* The SIT's finding that the bishop was indeed with the nun on dates cited by her, and documents confirming it. Copies of the bishop's cell phone messages to the nun.
* Statements from other nuns and priests confirming the victim had complained them.
* The nun's statement that she had mentioned about the rape during a confession at a retreat centre at Attapadi months before the Jalandhar diocese took disciplinary action against her.
* The confirmation given by authorities at the retreat centre that she had been there on that date.
(The bishop had argued that the nun raised the rape allegation to avenge him for the disciplinary action.)
Evidence solid: SP
Kottayam district police chief Hari Shankar said the proof against the bishop is sufficient to charge him with rape.
"We can't claim that he has admitted to the crime, but several pieces of evidence convince us that the crime was indeed committed. It was clear on Thursday itself that his claim of a conspiracy against him was unfounded. We will seek those who aided him in the crime and those who attempted to destroy evidence," the SP said.
