KOTTAYAM: Fr Mathews Vazhakkunnam has been removed from duties by the Orthodox Church for making derogatory remarks against Nilackal Diocese metropolitan Dr Joshua Mar Nicodimos and another priest.

Not only the members of the church but also the general public were astonished by the incendiary remarks made by Fr Mathews Vazhakkunnam. Catholica Bawa said it was wrong to make a public allegation in a channel discussion Fr Mathews could have taken ecclesiastical or legal steps to file a complaint against a fellow priest. Episcopal Synod Secretary Dr Yohanon Mar Chrysostamos Metropolitan, Fr VM Abraham Vazhakal and Adv KK Thomas were appointed to examine the recent complaints against Nilackal Diocese and submit a report within one month.