The Chittarikkal police in Kasaragod, Kerala, have registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against Father Paul Thattuparambil of Athirumavu Parish, following a complaint that he sexually abused a 16-year-old boy.
According to the police, the assault allegedly took place between May 15 and August 13, 2024. The priest reportedly took the boy to his residence and other locations where the offences occurred. The teenager revealed the ordeal during a counselling session conducted as part of a meditation programme. The counsellors subsequently informed Child Line, which filed a report with the police.
Since the registration of the case three days ago, Fr. Thattuparambil has gone into hiding, despite initial reports claiming he was receiving treatment at a private hospital. Police sources said efforts are being made to trace him, even as reports suggest the accused is preparing to apply for anticipatory bail.
In a related controversial development, an audio message circulated by a parish office-bearer urged the faithful to write letters to the police declaring the priest’s innocence, which the police suspect is an attempt to influence the investigation.
Fr. Thattuparambil, a native of Ernakulam, took charge at Chittarikkal a year-and-a-half ago after serving in another parish in Kannur district.
Published – June 13, 2025 12:59 pm IST
