Chief Minister in Goa Promises Justice for Christians

(March 15, 2012) Goa’s chief minister Manohar Parrikar said on Tuesday the destruction of more than a hundred Christian and Muslim gravestones was likely the work of people upset over recent elections and assured both communities that the attackers would be brought to justice. Forty-five headstones and crosses were broken at the Guardian Angel Church cemetery in Curchorem, about 50 km south of the state capital Panaji. Vandals also targeted 67 graves in a Muslim cemetery in Curchorem. A roadside cross and the roof of a chapel in Mapusa near Panaji were also damaged. Police have been instructed to use all resources to identify and arrest suspects in the attacks, Parrikar said, adding that patrols in the areas have been increased and additional police have been deployed to secure religious sites. “At the moment, we have not got any leads in our investigation,” said South Goa police superintendent Arwind Gawas. Parrikar also said he would consider invoking the National Security Act and that he would “make sure that the culprits remain behind bars forever.” Meanwhile, the Goa archdiocese has urged restraint among communities angered by the vandal attacks. In a statement this week, the Goa Church said people’s final resting places were next in importance only to houses of worship and therefore demanded the utmost respect and veneration. Compensation has been offered to repair graves.