Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, aged 60, was found dead this morning in his church room at Bhogpur, Jalandhar. Father Kuriakose belonged to the Jalandhar Diocese and was responsible for filing a case against Bishop Franco Mulakkal. He was reportedly suffering from age-related ailments, a report from Mathrubhumi said.

There is a difference of opinion in his death too, as some priests claim it could be a conspiracy. More information can be only availed after the postmortem is performed. Reports say that the news of his death comes as a shocker since Bishop Franco recently walked out on bail and was given a thunderous welcome back home in Jalandhar.

In alleged rape allegations against the Bishop, Fr Kuriakose displayed valour in going against the church and filing a complaint for an investigation to be conducted. In an interview to Mathrubhumi, he had claimed that he was being tortured continuously by the Bishop and other officials for his decision to file a complaint.

Reports claim that his brother, Jose Kattuthara also suspects a conspiracy as the death came as a shocker to everyone. He claims that Fr Kuriakose has been murdered for speaking up against Bishop Franco and pursuing the truth in the matter. Fr Kuriakose had earlier claimed that his life was under threat.