Bishop of Liverpool Faces Calls to Step Down Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Senior clergy demand Bishop John Perumbalath temporarily leave his post as investigations into claims of sexual misconduct proceed.

Two women, including a female bishop, have accused Bishop John Perumbalath of sexual assault and harassment during his tenure in the Chelmsford diocese from 2019 to 2023.
Allegations include non-consensual kissing, groping, and inappropriate comments, with one woman claiming the Church's safeguarding team discouraged her from filing a formal complaint.
Senior leaders of the Diocese of Liverpool have publicly stated that Perumbalath’s position is untenable and called for him to step aside while investigations continue.
The Church of England’s handling of these allegations has drawn criticism, with concerns over its safeguarding processes and disciplinary measures.
Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell, who was aware of the allegations before Perumbalath's promotion, faces mounting scrutiny over his leadership and prior safeguarding failures.