Panaji (GOA): As the act of desecration of the holy crosses and plaques continues to haunt the State, Goa Governor Dr Mridula Sinha said that the “despicable act has pained her beyond words”.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Governor has appealed all Goans to remain calm and maintain peace and harmony and resolve to deepen the solidarity and brotherhood in the society

“The despicable act of desecration of the holy crosses and plaques installed in the graves in the cemetery in Curchorem, has pained me beyond words,” she said.

“Such mindless acts of religious vandalism are clearly aimed at breaking the communal fabric of Goan traditional society, where people of all faith, community and creed live in peace and harmony, which has been a hallmark of the State,” Governor added.

“We the Goans cannot be bogged down by such shameful and reprehensible acts rather it should strengthen our resolve to further reinforce the secular tradition of our State,” Sinha stated.

As the head of the State, Governor has asked the Director General of Police (DGP) to act swiftly in the matter and bring the perpetrators to book immediately. “Such acts warrant zero tolerance on part of police and administration and stringent and full measures must be taken to bring the culprits behind bars,” Sinha said.

She said that police must devise ingenious ways to handle such alarming situations and also appealed people to remain vigilant so that such acts are not repeated.

Several gravestones and Holy Crosses were desecrated during last one week along Chandor-Curchorem area.

Team TNV