Rape-accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal 'hands over' charge of duties

With pressure mounting on, Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal, accused of rape by a nun in Kerala, has "handed over" his charge of duties and responsibilities to fellow priests on Saturday. "I am likely to be called for further clarifications by investigating officers in Kerala. I appoint Rev. Fr. Joseph Thekkumkattil and Rev. Fr. Subin Thekkedathu (for administrative charges of the diocese)," said Bishop Mulakkal in a letter. 

Reportedly, the Vatican has consituted a one-member panel to investigate the allegations against the bishop. Reports suggest that the accusations against the bishop was brought to the notice of the Vatican after Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the Vatican representative in India, met Cardinal Fernando Filoni, the head of the Vatican’s Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples. It is speculated that this has resulted in the hesitant bishop transfering the charges to the priests. 

Earlier, media had reported that Cardinal Gracias was of the opinion that Bishop Mulakkal "should step down and let an inquiry against him unfold". 

In light of Bishop Mulakkal handing over his charges, a meeting has been convened by bishops and archbishops at Chandigarh on Saturday to decide the further course. 

Meanwhile, the sit-in protest by nuns at the Kerala High Court entered the eighth day on Saturday with support pouring in from various factions.