Transparency demanded in sale of church land in Mumbai

(July 06, 2011) Catholic organisations in Mumbai City in western India’s Maharashtra State, have favoured a transparent approach to selling land owned by churches and using the proceeds for the benefit of the community. The meeting was organised by the Association of Concerned Catholics - AOCC at Dadar. It deliberated on the issues thrown up by land sales at Our Lady of Salvation Church in Dadar, St. Michael’s Church in Mahim, Nazareth Church in Bhayandar and IC Church in Borivli.
AOCC President Greg Pereira said the root cause for corruption is the rule of a sole trustee, as this rule bestows all power to the parish priests in matters of sale of property. The AOCC has been pursuing the issue of more democratic governance in parishes for property and finance with Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai, and we will continue our fight for justice,” said Pereira. “The properties were donated by Catholics for the benefit of the community and the sale or development of these properties has not benefited the community,” he added.