🕯️ The Sister Abhaya Murder Case Report
Date: 27 March 1992 – 22 December 2020 (verdict) – June 2022 (bail and sentence suspension)
🔎 Case Overview
On 27 March 1992, 19‑year‑old Sister Abhaya (born Beena Thomas), a pre-degree student and nun residing at Pius X Convent Hostel in Kottayam, Kerala, was reported missing. Her body was discovered in a well within the convent premises early that morning. Local police and the crime branch initially ruled it a suicide, citing drowning, despite visible head injuries .
📚 Investigation Timeline
1992–1995:
A forensic post-mortem revealed abrasions on Abhaya’s skull, shoulder, and hip, contradicting the suicide ruling .
In April 1995, CBI’s dummy-well tests concluded homicide could not be ruled out .
1992–1998:
Multiple agencies reopened investigations—state crime branch, CBI, and High Court-appointed teams—but progress stalled due to alleged destruction of evidence and internal conflicts .
2008–2009:
On 19 November 2008, the CBI arrested Father Thomas Kottoor, Father Jose Puthrukayil, and Sister Sephy. They were charged in July 2009 with murder, evidence tampering, and conspiracy, with allegations that Abhaya discovered a “compromising scene” involving them, prompting her murder using an axe before her body was dumped in the well .
2018:
One accused, Father Jose, was acquitted due to lack of evidence .
December 2020 Verdict:
On 22 December 2020, a special CBI court in Thiruvananthapuram convicted Father Thomas and Sister Sephy of murder (IPC §302) along with charges related to trespass and evidence tampering (IPC §§449, 201). Both received life sentences and each fined ₹5 lakh .
June 2022 Appeal:
Kerala High Court suspended their sentences on bail, citing questionable narco-analysis results, weak novel evidence like the hymenoplasty claim, and difficulties verifying photographic evidence. Bail granted pending appeal .
⚖️ Why This Case Matters
Brutal murder of a convent nun who likely caught powerful figures in compromise.
Highlighted systemic failure—initial misclassification, loss/tampering of evidence, hostile witnesses.
Narco-analysis controversies, virginity tests and substantial legal scrutiny.
A testament to civil society’s power—activists like Jomon Puthenpurackal and persistent media pressure ensured the case remained alive .
Case Research by Miss. Priyadarshani Naik (Chief Research Officer)- SAMCRCPN
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