What Led to the Mysterious Death of a Canadian Priest at Chennai's Loyola College?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Demand for Investigation: A call for a detailed inquiry into the mysterious death.
- Family Concerns: Father Omala's relatives have expressed doubts regarding the circumstances.
- College Administration: Questions arise about the lack of police notification.
- Government Audit: A push for a review of foreign missionaries' activities.
- Justice for Father Omala: A demand for clarity and accountability in the investigation.
Chennai, July 24 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu BJP State Media Spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad has demanded a meticulous and transparent inquiry into the enigmatic death of a Canadian priest at Loyola College in Chennai. In a press release, Prasad expressed his dismay over the demise of Father Omala, a 55-year-old Canadian national who had been serving at the church situated on the Loyola College campus in Nungambakkam.
Reports suggest that the priest passed away under mysterious circumstances a few days ago, he mentioned.
Father Omala’s relatives, who traveled to Chennai from Canada after receiving the distressing news, have reportedly expressed doubts regarding the situation surrounding his death.
In response, a post-mortem examination was performed at the Government Kilpauk Medical College and Hospital.
Prasad raised concerns about the absence of formal notification from the college administration to the police. “In the event of a foreign national's sudden death, the institution employing that individual is obligated to inform the local police. It remains uncertain whether the Loyola College administration filed such a report or if a proper investigation was initiated based on it. The Chennai City Police must clarify this,” he stated.
Highlighting broader issues, the BJP leader urged the Tamil Nadu government to execute a comprehensive review of foreign missionaries operating in churches throughout the state.
“The government must evaluate whether these foreign missionaries are also participating in religious conversions in addition to their official roles. Their financial sources must undergo thorough scrutiny,” he remarked.
He further alleged that Father Omala’s body, which was preserved in a freezer, was only removed for autopsy after the family expressed concerns regarding the cause of death.
“This situation raises numerous troubling questions,” he stated.
Prasad called for immediate attention from the Tamil Nadu Home Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) to ensure a transparent investigation. He also recommended that the case be considered for transfer to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to its international implications.
“The truth must be uncovered, and justice must prevail,” Prasad emphasized.