Dasuya, October 23, 2018: The mortal remains of Father Kuriakose Kattuthara has been brought to a church at Jalandhar Cantonment in Punjab on October 23. It will be taken to Kerala on via New Delhi where his funeral will be performed.
The prelate was found dead inside his room at a convent in Hoshiarpur district’s Dasuya in Punjab on October 22.
Punjab Police earlier in the day said that the case is being dealt with under the relevant section of Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Station House Officer (SHO) Jagdish Raj told media that the statement of Father Kuriakose Kattuthara’s brother has been recorded.
“His (Father Kuriakose Kattuthara) brother’s statement has been recorded. The case is being dealt with under 174 CrPc. After the postmortem, the body will be given to the family,” Raj said. His family have filed a complaint with the Punjab police, stating that he was subjected to mental, physical harassment and threats by Bishop Franco’s men.
However, Jose Kurian, brother of Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, who was found dead yesterday, said he has no faith in Punjab Police.
Speaking to media he said, “I want to bring the body to Alappuzha and bury it. Is there any guarantee that the postmortem will be done without foul play?”
Speaking to reporters, Jose Kattuthara had earlier said that in his final call with Fr Kuriakose three days ago, the latter had asked him to pray for his life as he was under a lot of pressure after giving his statement against Bishop Franco to the investigating offciers.
“He had said that, if Bishop Franco got bail, he (Fr Kuriakose) would surely die,” Elsamma, wife of Jose Kattuthara said.
Bishop Mulakkal was released from Kottayam jail on October 16, a day after being granted conditional bail. He is facing allegations of repeatedly raping a nun of his own congregation, a charge that he denies.
(source:India.com, TNM)