Chandigarh:
Of the many questions that the Ruchika case may have thrown up, one thing that shocked everyone is the sudden expulsion of Ruchika Girhotra from her school Sacred Heart Convent.
The school denies expelling her under any pressure, saying it will fully cooperate in the investigations.
NDTV spoke with Father Thomas, spokesperson of the diocese of Shimla and Chandigarh to find out more:
NDTV: What's your reaction to allegations that pressure was put on the school to expel Ruchika?
Father Thomas: I will never agree with this. The teachers would not give in to any pressure.
NDTV: What was then the reason to expel her?
Father Thomas: The school will have a lot of technical grounds on which a student will be expelled. But that will be known only when the then principal comes back tomorrow.
NDTV: What have the inquiries so far thrown up?
Father Thomas: Unless the principal comes, they will not find the records. The authorities have spoken to the teachers but even they are not aware. But one thing is for sure - that it was not under any pressure from Mr Rathore.
NDTV: Are you concerned about the allegations and the government talking about stern action against the school?
Father Thomas: A, Let Sister Sabistina come back; the inquiry will happen then. But this will not impact the school.