Fr. Joseph Mulen, a 91-year-old priest of the Diocese of Dibrugarh, had chosen to travel by train as a matter of personal preference. Due to the long waiting hours and procedures involved in air travel, he consistently opted for the simplicity and comfort of train journeys, even in his advanced age.

On learning that Fr. Manjit Barla was travelling to Kerala for his brother’s treatment, Fr. Mulen expressed his desire to accompany him and make the journey home for the holidays. He was reportedly very happy and excited about the trip, and those who met him prior to his departure witnessed his joy and eagerness. Before leaving, he also imparted his blessing to a few individuals, including Sr. Rita SCCG—an experience she deeply cherishes.

Fr. Mulen was accompanied by Fr. Manjit Barla, Mr. Peter Barla (brother of Fr. Manjit), and Ms. Cecilia, his caretaker. During the initial days of the journey, he was assisted by Fr. Manjit and Ms. Cecilia, especially in attending to his needs, including visits to the washroom.

However, on the third day of the journey, during the night, Fr. Mulen appears to have gone to the washroom on his own, without the knowledge of those accompanying him. When his absence was noticed, an immediate search was conducted within the train, but he could not be located.

The matter was promptly reported to the Railway Police Force. On the following day, his body was discovered near the railway tracks at Eluru, Andhra Pradesh.

It is important to note that this train journey was entirely his personal choice, made out of his long-standing preference for train travel.

The Diocese continues to mourn his loss and remembers him with deep respect and gratitude for his many years of dedicated priestly service.