Vandals target Malankara church in Hyderabad

A Syro-Malankara Catholic church in Hyderabad was targeted by vandals who set fire to the Altar and burnt copies of the Bible on Thursday.

The incident at Mother Mary Malankara (Catholic) Church came to light on Friday as the church authorities were preparing for a service.

The unidentified vandals burnt the Cross, copies of the Bible, hymn books and other sacred objects. They also burned the expensive sound system of the church.

The church is situated near Maredpally Picket area, Secunderabad.

Police have registered a case and are investigating the matter.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (North Zone) Ch Srikant told media that the police suspected the handiwork of some local residents.

On Wednesday, the church incharge Matthew Papachan and a worker, Satyajeet Sinha, had cleaned the church as rainwater had entered the premises.

"At night they locked all the doors and left. When Papachan came back to finish cleaning at 1 pm on Thursday, he noticed smoke coming out of the church. He informed the church priest and other elders, who rushed to the spot," informed a note from the church.

The church reportedly had witnessed a similar incident four years ago. Bajrang Dal activists were alleged to have been behind the incident.

"I had locked up the premises before leaving the church, and when I returned on Thursday everything was broken. We are hurt," said Papachan.

The incident comes a week after another Malankara Catholic Church was vandalised in Pune.

Miscreants reportedly damaged sacred images and holy books at St Mary's Malankara Catholic Church in Warje. They also stole Rs 200 from the donation box.

State Minorities Commission vice chairman Abraham Mathai called for "stringent action" against the accused.

Police registered a case for "theft, house-breaking and deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings".