Mathews Mar Koorilos (Dead) And Anr. ... vs M. Pappy (Dead) And Anr. Etc.

The Supreme Court upheld the trial court's decision declaring that the Metropolitan of Quilon Diocese and his appointed Vicars have the exclusive right to conduct religious services in St. Mary’s Church, based on the assignment-cum-gift deed dated 29.06.1972 (Ext.-A3). The Court emphasized that the church and its properties are to be managed according to the intentions expressed in the deed, rejecting the Parishioners' claims that the church operates as a trust requiring their consent for religious services. The Court affirmed the permanent injunction against the Parishioners from entering the church and obstructing the appellants' rights, thereby reinforcing the authority of the Metropolitan as per the deed's provisions.