Nun's Rape Case Appeal in High Court: Justice Sought
Nun seeks justice in High Court appeal against Bishop Franco Mulakkal.
Photo by Mika Baumeister
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Social Justice, Governance
GS Paper I: Social Issues
Connects to fundamental rights, secularism, and judicial processes
Visual Insights
Timeline of Bishop Franco Case and Related Legal Developments
Key events in the Bishop Franco case, highlighting the legal journey and relevant amendments to CrPC and IPC regarding sexual offences.
This case highlights the challenges faced by victims of sexual assault in India's legal system and the ongoing efforts to strengthen victim rights through amendments to CrPC and IPC.
- 2018Nun files rape complaint against Bishop Franco Mulakkal.
- 2019Bishop Franco arrested and later released on bail.
- 2022Trial court acquits Bishop Franco.
- 2023Kerala High Court admits appeal against acquittal.
- 2025Amendments to CrPC further strengthen victim rights in sexual assault cases.
- 2026High Court hears appeal in Nun's rape case; Sister Rashmi seeks to be known by her name and speaks out.
More Information
Background
The history of the Catholic Church in India dates back to the arrival of St. Thomas the Apostle in the 1st century AD. The establishment of religious orders and dioceses followed over centuries, shaping the socio-cultural landscape.
Canon law, governing the internal affairs of the Church, has evolved significantly. The relationship between the Church and the Indian state has been complex, marked by periods of cooperation and tension, particularly concerning issues of religious freedom, education, and social justice. Legal frameworks addressing sexual offenses within religious institutions have been a subject of ongoing debate and reform, reflecting broader societal concerns about accountability and protection of vulnerable individuals.
Latest Developments
Recent years have seen increased scrutiny of religious institutions globally, with a focus on safeguarding vulnerable individuals and ensuring accountability for alleged abuses. The Indian legal system has been grappling with the challenges of balancing religious freedom with the protection of individual rights, particularly in cases involving allegations of sexual assault within religious organizations.
There is a growing demand for greater transparency and independent oversight mechanisms within religious institutions to prevent abuse and ensure justice for victims. The future may see further legal reforms and policy changes aimed at strengthening safeguards and promoting a culture of accountability.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding Canon Law: 1. It is a set of laws and regulations governing the internal affairs of the Catholic Church. 2. It is directly enforceable by the Indian legal system. 3. It addresses matters such as sacraments, religious vows, and ecclesiastical governance. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Canon Law governs the internal affairs of the Catholic Church, but it is not directly enforceable by the Indian legal system. Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
2. Which of the following Articles of the Indian Constitution is most directly relevant to the issue of religious freedom and the rights of religious institutions?
- A.Article 14
- B.Article 19
- C.Article 25
- D.Article 32
Show Answer
Answer: C
Article 25 guarantees the freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
3. Assertion (A): There is an increasing demand for greater transparency and accountability within religious institutions in India. Reason (R): Allegations of abuse and misconduct within religious organizations have raised concerns about the protection of vulnerable individuals. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?
- A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
- B.Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
- C.A is true, but R is false.
- D.A is false, but R is true.
Show Answer
Answer: A
The increasing demand for transparency and accountability is directly linked to concerns about abuse and misconduct within religious organizations. Therefore, R is the correct explanation of A.
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Source Articles
‘I don’t want to hide anymore. I want to be seen and heard’: Nun in rape case against Bishop speaks out | Long Reads News - The Indian Express
Explained: What is the Kerala nun rape case?
Latest News on Nun Rape Case: Get Nun Rape Case News Updates along with Photos, Videos and Latest News Headlines | The Indian Express
Police plan to appeal against Bishop Franco Mulakkal’s acquittal in nun rape case | India News,The Indian Express
Sengar order perverse: CBI challenges HC finding, moves SC in 2017 Unnao rape case