Certain sections of the media are spreading misunderstanding about the disciplinary actions taken against Sister Lucy Kalappura, alleges the Franciscan Clarist Congregation.

“The media should refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of the congregation that spreads misunderstanding and creates unrest in society,” says an undated statement from the Public Relations Officer of the congregation’s Saint Mary’s Province based in Mananthavady in Kerala that was made public on August 20. The 130-year-old congregation, with headquarters in Kerala’s Aluva, on August 5 dismissed Kalappura accusing her of violating the vows of obedience and poverty.

The 54-year-old nun on August 16 appealed to the Vatican against her dismissal, alleging that the congregation expelled her since she had joined last year a protest against a bishop who had allegedly raped a nun.