FIR Registered Over Malad West School Prayer Meeting Superstition Claims
The Mumbai Police have registered a criminal case and launched an investigation into a prayer meeting held at the Rejoice International School in Malad West, Mumbai, following allegations of faith-healing and the promotion of superstition. The Maharashtra government confirmed the police action in the Legislative Assembly on July 7, 2026, regarding the school event that took place on May 10, 2026.
Minister of State for Home Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar announced the investigation during Question Hour in the Assembly. He was replying to a query raised by BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar, who had sought details regarding allegations of attempted religious conversion during the May program.
Bhatkhalkar claimed that a speaker at the event placed hands on the heads of participants, claimed to cure illnesses, and made objectionable remarks about Hindu deities to attract people toward Christianity. The MLA also alleged that similar programmes were being organised at the school every Sunday.
Following the complaints, the police conducted an inquiry. Bhoyar told the Assembly that the police investigation found no evidence that participants were pressured or persuaded to convert to Christianity during the programme.
However, the police inquiry did reveal that the complainant was allegedly advised not to keep photographs of Hindu deities at home. The investigation also confirmed that the claims of miraculous healing and relief from suffering made during the event amounted to the promotion of superstition.
Based on these findings, the Malad Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Charges were also filed under the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and Other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act.
Bhoyar assured the Legislative Assembly that a thorough investigation is underway and strict action will be taken against those found responsible. Furthermore, the Minister stated that the State government would take steps through the School Education Department to prevent such programmes from being conducted in schools in the future.
