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.
