Sources suggest that he was asked for his resignation. However, the Apostolic Nunciature of India-the diplomatic mission of Pope Francis in India, in their official statement stated that the resignation was requested by Franco Mulakkal. They also made it clear that it was not disciplinary action either. ‘The Apostolic Nunciature wishes to specify that the Holy See respects the verdict of the Additional District and Sessions Court, Kottayam, Kerala acquitting Bishop Mulakkal from the allegations concerning him, as well as the appeal against the acquittal which has been admitted by the Kerala High Court. Given the still divisive situation about the aforesaid matter in the Diocese of Jullundur, the resignation has been requested from Rev Mulakkal not as a disciplinary measure imposed upon him, but as pro bono Ecclesiae, especially for the good of the Diocese which needs a new Bishop’.