Kochi: The high court has rejected the petition which sought to revoke the bail of rape accused bishop Franco Mulakkal. The court observed that the witnesses have to approach the court for safety from Bishop’s threat and not a third party. It also inquired why should a third party move court on this matter.

In the wake of Fr Kuriakose Kattuthara’s death, a plea demanding security for the witnesses in the rape case against Franco and reconsideration of the conditions mentioned in bishop’s bail was submitted in the court.

The plea was not filed by one among the witnesses. The court stated that the witnesses themselves should approach the court if they need protection.