Police probe nun's suicide in Kerala

The suicide of a young nun in Quilon diocese in Kerala has led to a special investigation probe after the father of the deceased accused the convent authorities and his loss of faith in the Church.

Anupa Mary, 22, member of the Vimala Hrudaya Franciscan congregation was found hanging in the bedroom of the convent on Monday evening.

A suicide note expressing her difficulty to adjust to the convent life and her new environment has also been recovered by the local police. It even spoke of her disagreement with the Mother Superior of the convent.

Father of the deceased met with Chief Minister V.S Achuthanandan and has sought his help in the case.

Pappachan alleged that his daughter hanged inside her convent on Aug.11 unable to suffer the sexual and mental harassment from convent superiors.

Adding that he has no faith in the enquiry initiated by the diocese, he said, "I do not trust these (Church) people and their sincerity enquiring about the death of my daughter. I have come here to seek the help of the Government in the legal steps that are to be followed."

"Money is a strong factor in deciding turn of justice in our system and that the Church has always stood by those who had money power," he continued.

Although media alleged sexual harassment, the police have debunked these claims as the suicide note only linked to her mental and lonely experiences.

The diocesan public relations officer, Fr. George Ribeiro, said authorities are “shocked” and are investigating as to what caused the sad event.