Case Registered Over Faith-Healing Claims At Malad School

A criminal case has been registered against Rejoice International School in Malad West, Mumbai, over alleged faith-healing claims and promotion of superstition during a prayer meeting. The Maharashtra government informed the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday that a detailed investigation is underway.

The investigation began after BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar raised a question about allegations of attempted religious conversion during a programme held at the school on May 10, 2026. Bhatkhalkar claimed that a speaker at the event made objectionable remarks about Hindu deities, attempted to attract people towards Christianity, and claimed to cure illnesses.

Minister of State for Home Dr Pankaj Bhoyar responded to the allegations, stating that the police inquiry found no evidence of forced conversion. However, the inquiry revealed that participants were advised not to keep photographs of Hindu deities at home, and claims of miraculous healing amounted to the promotion of superstition.

Based on these findings, the Malad Police registered an FIR under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and Other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act. Dr Bhoyar assured the House that strict action would be taken against those found responsible.

The State government will also take steps through the School Education Department to prevent such programmes from being conducted in schools in the future. Necessary directions will be issued to educational institutions to prevent similar incidents. The government's actions aim to address concerns over alleged faith-healing claims and promotion of superstition in educational institutions.

The incident has sparked concerns over the promotion of superstition and alleged religious conversion in schools. The Maharashtra government's swift action in registering a case and launching an investigation demonstrates its commitment to addressing these concerns. As the investigation continues, the government's efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future will be closely watched.

The case has also raised questions about the role of educational institutions in promoting critical thinking and scientific temper. The government's decision to issue directions to schools to prevent similar incidents highlights the need for greater awareness and vigilance in this area. As the matter unfolds, it is likely to have significant implications for educational institutions and the broader community in Mumbai and beyond.

In conclusion, the case registered over alleged faith-healing claims at Rejoice International School in Malad West marks an important step in addressing concerns over superstition and alleged religious conversion in educational institutions. The Maharashtra government's actions demonstrate its commitment to upholding the law and promoting critical thinking and scientific temper in schools.