In a shocking turn of events, two priests from Mumbai’s iconic Mount Mary Basilica have been booked for theft and criminal intimidation, sparking outrage among devotees and raising questions about security protocols at religious institutions.
Background/Context
The Mount Mary Basilica, located in the upscale Bandra suburb, is one of Mumbai’s most visited churches, drawing thousands of pilgrims each year. In March 2025, a dispute erupted when a local contractor, Robinson Gonsalves, discovered that construction materials were being loaded onto a tempo van by the priests and their security guards. Gonsalves claimed the items were his property, stored on an open plot adjacent to the church’s premises. When the priests allegedly attempted to take the materials, Gonsalves confronted them, leading to a confrontation that escalated into a legal matter.
While the incident itself may appear isolated, it reflects a broader trend of escalating tensions between religious institutions and local communities over land use and property rights. In recent years, Mumbai has seen a surge in property disputes involving churches, temples, and mosques, often resulting in legal battles that strain communal harmony.
Key Developments
On January 19, 2026, Bandra police registered an FIR against five individuals: two priests, Father Anthony Kumar and Father Joseph Parker, and three security guards. The charges include:
- Section 303 (Theft) – Alleged removal of construction materials without permission.
- Section 329 (Criminal Trespass) – Unauthorized entry onto Gonsalves’ property.
- Section 351 (Criminal Intimidation) – Threatening behavior towards the contractor.
Police statements indicate that the priests had previously attempted to acquire the materials through “multiple tactics,” a claim echoed by the church’s legal counsel, Adv. Nigel Qureshi. Qureshi stated, “The FIR appears to have been filed after a complaint lodged with the Bandra Metropolitan Magistrate on May 14, 2025, concerning property belonging to the church. We are pursuing all available legal remedies.”
In addition to the criminal case, the church has filed a civil suit in the Bombay High Court seeking injunctions against the priests and guards. The court, in a May 5 hearing, directed that the status quo be maintained pending the outcome of the proceedings.
According to police records, the incident involved the loading of approximately 200 kg of cement, steel rods, and wooden planks—materials essential for the church’s ongoing renovation project. The total value of the alleged stolen goods is estimated at ₹1.2 million.
Impact Analysis
For the local community, the case has heightened concerns about property security and the conduct of religious leaders. Residents of Bandra have expressed unease, noting that the incident could set a precedent for future disputes involving church-owned land.
Students and young professionals who frequent the Basilica for study groups or community service are also affected. The incident has prompted the church to temporarily suspend volunteer activities on the premises, citing safety concerns. This disruption may impact students who rely on the church’s facilities for group projects and study sessions.
From a broader perspective, the case underscores the need for transparent governance within religious institutions. The involvement of priests in alleged criminal activity challenges the moral authority they hold and may erode public trust in faith-based organizations.
Expert Insights/Tips
Legal experts advise that individuals involved in property disputes should document all transactions meticulously. “Maintaining clear records—receipts, contracts, and photographic evidence—can be decisive in court,” says Dr. Asha Patel, a property law specialist at the Mumbai Law Institute.
For community members, experts recommend engaging with local civic bodies early. “If you suspect any irregularities, approach the municipal corporation or the local police before the situation escalates,” Patel adds.
Religious institutions, meanwhile, are urged to adopt robust internal audit mechanisms. “Regular audits of property and financial transactions can prevent such incidents and safeguard the institution’s reputation,” notes Rev. Thomas Kumar, a senior pastor from St. Thomas’ Church in Andheri.
Practical steps for students and volunteers include:
- Verify the authenticity of any requests for property or funds.
- Keep a written log of all interactions with church officials.
- Report suspicious activities to the police or the church’s administrative office.
Looking Ahead
The legal proceedings are expected to unfold over the next few months. The Bombay High Court’s decision on the injunction will likely set a legal benchmark for similar cases nationwide. If the court sides with the church, it could reinforce the principle that religious leaders are not above the law.
Conversely, a ruling favoring the priests could embolden other clergy to assert greater control over church property, potentially leading to more frequent disputes. The outcome will also influence how religious institutions manage their security forces, prompting many to reassess the training and accountability of their guards.
In the long term, the case may catalyze reforms in how property rights are negotiated between religious bodies and local communities. Municipal authorities might introduce clearer guidelines for land use around religious sites, ensuring that both parties’ interests are protected.
For students and young professionals, the Mt Mary Church theft case serves as a reminder of the importance of civic vigilance and the role of the legal system in upholding justice, even within traditionally respected institutions.
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