Changanacherry-based Catholic Federation of India will launch a protest against nuns who have accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal of rape, The New Minute has reported. They have said that the nuns are illegally staying at the Missionaries of Jesus convent in Kuravilangad. The president of the Catholic Federation of India has also said that the nuns have the support of extremist groups.

“If the Save Our Sisters (SOS) begins the second phase protest against the Catholic church, we will launch our protest to oust the nuns from the convent,” Catholic Federation of India President P P Joseph told The News Minute. A press statement by the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) said that top officials from the Vatican have been following developments in Kerala.

“We were assured that the Holy See is closely following developments and is awaiting the result of a police investigation. We reiterated our confidence in the Judicial system of India, and trust the full truth will emerge and justice will be done for all,” the CBCI statement said.

“The visit of bishops and political leaders in Pala Sub Jail shows the conspiracy,” SOS Action Council convenor Fr Augustine Vattoly told The News Minute. Meanwhile, Save Our Sisters (SOS) have said that the Church authorities have conspired to demolish the case against Bishop Mulakkal.