Bantwal: Miscreants vandalize grotto of Mary at Loretto Church
Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal
Pics: Rahul & Alwyn
Bantwal, Oct 13: The grotto of Mary at Our Lady of Loretto Church, Loretto here was damaged by miscreants on the intervening night between Saturday October 12 and Sunday October 13.
The incident came to light on Sunday October 13 when a youth noticed the damaged glass of the grotto.
It is suspected that the glass of mother Mary statue in the grotto was damaged by the miscreants with two soda bottles which were found at the spot. A part of the statue is said be damaged.
Speaking to Daijiworld, parish priest Fr Oswald Monteiro said as soon as the incident came to light, Bantwal town police were informed. The incident took place between 10 pm and 5 am, he said.
Town SI Venkataramana, Puttur DSP H D Mendonca, circle inspector visited the spot and investigated the incident.
As soon as the news spread, people from neighboring parishes like Agrar, Modankap, Bambil and others visited the church and recited prayers in front of the grotto.
Since 12:30 pm, hundreds of parishioners have been protesting in the church premises. The protestors are waiting for minister Ramanath Rai’s visit.
A case has been registered at Bantwal town police station.