Rape Accused Bishop Was Constantly Harassing Deceased Priest Who Filed Complaint Against Him, Claims Brother

Jose Kattuthara, brother of Father Kuriakose Kattuthara who was found dead in his church room at Bhogpur, Jalandhar alleged that the senior Catholic priest was consistently harassed at the behest Bishop Franco Mulakkal, reports Manorama.

Kurian in a police complaint had said that his brother had often told him and family members that the bishop and his men have threatened him.

Father Kuriakose was a witness in the nun rape case and was found dead in a room at St Paul’s Convent on 22 October. Kurian also alleges that his brother’s salary was slashed and was being released irregularly.

Kuriakose’s residence in Bhogpur was also attacked on the day he gave his statement to the investigation team from Kerala.

He had earlier claimed that Kuriakose had been murdered for speaking up against Bishop Franco and pursuing the truth in the matter. Fr Kuriakose had more previously claimed that his life was under threat.