The Diocesan Fraternity of Imphal (DFI), the fraternity of diocesan priests working in the Archdiocese of Imphal, is shocked to learn of the allegations of child abuse levelled by the armed outfit KCP-MC against the Father (priest) of Catholic School, Canchipur through some local dailies namely, Imphal Times (evening daily, 15 May edition), Pandam (Manipuri edition, May 15), etc.
The allegations are of very serious nature and the DFI takes very strong exception to this issue. If the accusation is found to be true, as claimed in the news item, befitting punishment as per the law of the land should be meted out to the culprit in the interest of justice. However, the DFI is surprised that the allegations have surfaced from the revolutionary armed outfit KCP-MC, with no specific complaint from the part of the alleged victims- either written or verbal- to the school authorities or before a lawful authority. The DFI on its internal and independent enquiry found no rational basis to believe in this allegation. It believes that such rumours without any rational justification is aimed at tarnishing not just the name and reputation of the individual alleged, but also the institution at large. The DFI appeals to those concerned to desist from such propaganda. It also reiterates its commitment to cooperate with any lawful investigation on the matter and to stand for justice at all times.
