NewsKarnataka – Mangalore

Mangalore: Raphael Raj, chief secretary of Akhila Karnataka Catholic Christara Kannada Sangha was taken into custody on Tuesday June 3, after he held a press conference earlier in the day.

The case was filed by Konkani leaders in the city, Konkani Prachar Sanchalan president Stany Alvares and Konkani Sahitya Academy president Roy Castelino mainly because during the conference he accused Bangalore Archbishop Dr Bernard Moras in connection with the murder of Fr K J Thomas.

In the press meet Raj made direct allegations against Bangalore Archbishop Dr Bernard Moras and other prominent church members with reference to the murder of Fr K J Thomas, rector of St Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, and he also demanded a CBI probe into the case.

Raphael Raj was taken into custody by the Bunder police.

The case filed Roy Castelino, stated that  Raphael Raj is trying to sensationalize the issue. A probe has  already been ordered and the police are investigating the matter. However with a motive to create disruption in the society and encourage enmity, he has made baseless accusations against Archbishop Dr Bernard Moras and is keen on draggin him into this murder.

He concluded by stating that the allegations are completely false and have hurt the sentiments of the entire Christian community of Karnataka. Immediate action has to be taken against Raphael Raj for making such irresponsible statements.

Reportedly after questioning Raphael, it was decided not to arrest him, although a large number of people gathered at the police station and demanded an arrest.

Police officials stopped the protest and restored order, nevertheless on public  demand they were compelled to arrest Raphael later.

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