Kochi: Accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal approached Kerala High Court today for anticipatory bail in the sensational nun rape case. The court deferred Franco's anticipatory bail plea to September 25. The priest is scheduled to appear before the probe team tomorrow.

The bail plea stated that the allegation of rape is personal revenge played out by the complainant nun. She was criticised several times for improper conduct at the convent, and it served as a motive to trap him into rape allegation, the bishop stated.

Franco Mulakkal further assured full cooperation at any time with the probe team, an assurance seen as a measure to persuade the court to consider bail favourably.

Meantime, the nuns' protest holding placard in Kochi has entered its 11th day with support growing from several quarters, including a group of Catholic priests.

Bishop had also handed over his responsibilities to another priest as he flew to Kerala for further investigation. People also allege that he fears the church leadership may stand against him if he gets arrested when he sits as the chief of the diocese.

Also read: Kerala Police to grill rape accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal, probe his antecedents