After four years of desecration of the Sacred Heart Statue at the Holy Redeemer Church, Ambala, the Court of the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMIC), Ambala, delivered its judgment against two accused of the residents of Ambala Cantt. on March 9, 2026.
There has been growing concern over incidents of violence, intimidation, and targeted hostility against Christian communities. Reports of attacks on churches, disruption of prayer services, and acts of desecration have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the faithful in several regions. It is important to recognize that such actions and allegations undermine the fundamental principles of religious freedom, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. Upholding justice and ensuring accountability are essential steps toward preserving communal harmony and safeguarding the dignity and rights of every individual, regardless of their faith.
An unfortunate incident took place at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church of the Redemptorists, Ambala Cantonment, Haryana, on the night of December 25, 2021, during the Christmas celebrations. At approximately 12:30 a.m., two unidentified individuals unlawfully entered the church premises by jumping over a four-foot metal gate.
The intruders remained inside the premises for nearly an hour. During this time, they engaged in highly disrespectful and offensive acts, including urinating at the church entrance, damaging Christmas light decorations, and ultimately pulling down and desecrating the Sacred Heart statue of Jesus, which stood approximately 5.5 feet tall. After committing these acts, they fled the scene.
The entire incident was captured on the church’s CCTV cameras. Based on this evidence, Fr. Patras Mundu, CSsR, the Parish Priest and priest in charge of the church, filed a formal complaint with the police on December 26, 2021. Acting promptly, the local police apprehended the accused within three days, and the case was subsequently brought before the court.
Fr. Patras Mundu diligently pursued the case over the course of four years, with legal support from Supreme Court advocate Sr. Sneha Gill and local counsel Adv. Amarjeet Singh. Their sustained efforts ensured that the matter was followed through the judicial process without delay or compromise.
On March 9, 2026, the Court of the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMIC), Ambala, presided over by Shri Akshay Arora, delivered its judgment. The two accused residents of Ambala Cantt. were convicted under Sections 153A, 295, 427, and 452 of the Indian Penal Code and sentenced to five years and six months of imprisonment.
This judgment stands as a significant affirmation of the rule of law and the protection of religious places and sentiments. It reflects the principle that acts of desecration and those that disturb communal harmony will be addressed firmly within the framework of justice and will be punished by the court based on IPC 153A, 295,427 and 452.
This outcome is also seen as a moment of moral reassurance—that truth and justice, pursued with patience and perseverance, ultimately prevail.
Fr. Patras Mundu, CSsR.
Parish priest, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Ambala.
More information:
Hindustan Times on Vandalism of Christ Statue.
Justice at last “Punishment must be deterrent” by A. J. Philip
