CWM

Indian police arrest church attackers in Chennai

Tuesday, 14 October 2008 12:58

Police in India have arrested more than 20 people following attacks on Christian churches in Chennai, the Times of India reported on 10 October.

The Tamil Nadu police took action after two Bibles embedded in the outer walls of Protestant churches in the region were damaged. Another institution in Coimbatore was also attacked.

Church leaders have condemned the violence claiming the attacks have been responsible for "triggering enmity amongst the peace-loving people of Chennai".

Tamil Nadu Director General of Police, K P Jain has warned members of the public responsible for carrying out future attacks that they will face stringent action and detention under Goondas' Act – a law which entails compulsory imprisonment for one year.

He said: "Action has been initiated against 22 persons on charges of stoning and damaging statues in places of worship. Those who indulge in such activities that may cause enmity between religious groups would be dealt with sternly and jailed."