Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Panaji, Jul 22: Panaji Police have arrested Sathish Subramanian, a 40-year-old man from Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, for allegedly vandalising a religious cross located on Fr. Agnelo Road, Altinho.

The incident came to light after local resident Joseph Vaz filed a written complaint on July 20. Based on CCTV footage, the accused was identified and taken into custody on July 21.

According to police, the act of vandalism occurred between 9 pm and 10 pm on July 19. The cross, considered sacred by the local community, was found destroyed — prompting strong reaction from residents.

Police said Subramanian appeared to be suffering from mental illness. He was produced before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) and has since been referred to the Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour (IPHB) for evaluation.

An FIR has been registered under Section 298 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to actions deliberately intended to wound religious sentiments.

Further investigation into the case is ongoing.