Day: June 13, 2026

Catholics in Mumbai have strongly condemned the vandalism of a roadside statue of Jesus Christ in the Parel suburb and have demanded strict action against those responsible. The statue, located outside Holy Cross Church, was damaged by unidentified persons on June 7.

The incident caused deep hurt among parishioners who regularly gathered at the site for prayer and devotion. Church leaders described the act as an attack not only on a religious symbol but also on the faith and sentiments of the Christian community.

The Archdiocese of Bombay issued a statement expressing deep concern and condemning the desecration. It said such incidents are not isolated acts of mischief but targeted attacks that threaten the spirit of peaceful coexistence for which Mumbai is known.

The latest attack comes less than a month after a roadside Cross near the historic St. John the Baptist Church in Andheri East was vandalized twice. Following those incidents, police had taken steps to protect several roadside crosses in the area.

Roadside crosses and statues have long been part of Mumbai’s Catholic heritage, dating back to the Portuguese era. They are not only objects of devotion but also symbols of history, identity, and community life.

The Archdiocese has called for a thorough investigation and urged the authorities to ensure the protection of all places of worship. Catholic organizations and community leaders warned that repeated attacks on religious symbols could disturb communal harmony.

They appealed to all citizens to uphold Mumbai’s values of pluralism, tolerance, and mutual respect.

India is set to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) and computational thinking in schools from Grade 3 beginning with the 2026–27 academic year. While the move aims to prepare students for a technology-driven future, education experts are urging caution and calling for stronger ethical safeguards.

The Ministry of Education has described AI as a “basic universal skill” necessary for future-ready learning. However, many believe that children should first understand the limits and risks of AI before depending on it.

Recent studies show that children are adopting AI tools rapidly. A 2025 survey across 10 Indian states found that 35 percent of students using educational technology already use generative AI for learning. Yet, nearly 75 percent mistakenly believe AI works just like an internet search engine.

Experts warn that using AI without proper understanding could weaken important skills such as critical thinking, concentration, fact-checking, and independent judgment.

Concerns have also been raised about India’s preparedness. Official figures show that around one-third of schools still lack adequate computer or internet facilities, while more than 100,000 schools continue to function with only one teacher.

International organisations such as UNESCO have stressed the importance of teacher training, ethical guidelines, and age-appropriate use of AI in classrooms. They recommend that younger children focus on computational thinking, creativity, and responsible technology use rather than becoming dependent on generative AI tools.

Educators say the goal should not simply be teaching children how to use AI, but helping them become wise, responsible, and thoughtful individuals who can use technology for the common good.