The cemetery attached to Holy Cross Church at Juhu has been the target of vandals, leaving the community in shock and despair. Approximately three to four days ago, unidentified individuals wreaked havoc on the burial ground, which has been in use for decades. “The culprits emptied and destroyed several cremation niches, scattering the bones of the deceased across the cemetery. This desecration has not only caused immense emotional distress to the families of the deceased but has also sparked a demand for immediate action from the authorities,” said a local priest of the church.

In an email addressed to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai Police, and the chief minister of Maharashtra, advocate Godfrey Pimenta, an activist, condemned the incident.  The email contains an appeal to the Mumbai police to apprehend the culprits and ensure such incidents do not recur. “The cemetery area has reportedly become a frequent haunt for anti-social elements, particularly drug addicts, which has raised concerns about the security and sanctity of the site,” Pimenta told mid-day.