Church files complaint after tourists scale holy cross in Kerala's Munnar

The incident occurred at Pallivasal, a locality in the Munnar region of Kerala's Idukki district, triggering swift condemnation from the Christian community. The four individuals scaled the holy cross, a revered symbol at the location, and took photographs during the unauthorized climb, according to church officials who reported the matter.

Church authorities characterised the act as a breach of religious sanctity and filed a formal police complaint demanding strict action against those responsible. The complaint underscores growing tensions over the treatment of sacred religious sites and the need for greater awareness among visitors about respecting such locations.

Munnar, a prominent hill station and tourist destination in the Western Ghats, has witnessed increased footfall in recent years. The incident has renewed concerns among religious communities about safeguarding sacred spaces from irreverent conduct by visitors seeking social media content and photographs.

Police have registered the complaint and begun preliminary investigations into the matter. The incident has sparked broader discussions about balancing tourism development with the protection of religious and cultural heritage in the region.