Kottayam: The police have moved to record the statement of key witnesses confidentially in the alleged rape of a nun at a convent at Nadukunnu, Kuravilangad. The decision was prompted by the apprehension that the accused, Bishop Franco Mulakkal, might use his power to bring pressure on the witnesses.
The special investigating team (SIT) handling the case has filed a plea with the Kottayam Chief Judicial Magistrate's court to record the deposition of five nuns who have stood firmly with the victim. They are also seeking to line up other important witnesses before the magistrate.
The police fear the bishop may use his clout to turn around witnesses once he manages bail. The SIT effort is to foil that.
Signalling that such efforts are on, a parish priest changed his stand the other day. This priest had originally told the SIT that the nun had told him about the bishop's sexual exploitation. His statement also mentioned that the complaint is supported by evidence and that the bishop's aides had sought a compromise. However, the same priest turned against the nun one week ago.
The move for testimony before the magistrate was also prompted by the need to ensure solid legality of witness statements. The police had filmed all deposition from witnesses, but it is feared that the court may not accept them as proof.
So far only the abused nun's deposition has been recorded in court though the SIT had obtained statements from over 100 witnesses. More witnesses are to be examined in the coming days.
Meanwhile the Kaduthuruthi Circle Inspector has launched a probe into the complaint against Poonjar MLA P C George. The probe would proceed as per instructions from the district police chief, after examination of video clips.
