Wed Apr 09 20:08:14 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Priest Receives Court-Ordered Police Protection Amidst Church Disputes
**KOCHI, April 10, 2025** – The Kerala High Court has ordered police to provide protection to Father Tharian Njaliath, vicar and trustee of St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica in Ernakulam, following ongoing disputes over church services.
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas issued the order in response to a petition filed by Fr. Njaliath citing disruptions caused by protesters. These disruptions, according to the petition, included preventing worshippers from attending services, interfering with sacraments such as baptism and communion, and even hindering funeral ceremonies. The petition also detailed vandalism, including the destruction of church signage and other acts of mischief within the church grounds. Fr. Njaliath also reported a personal threat of violence.
The court’s intervention comes after the priest’s previous requests for police protection were allegedly ignored. The order directs the Kochi City District Police Chief to ensure Fr. Njaliath’s safety and enable him to carry out his duties without hindrance.
First Piper 