Four arrested for climbing cross

The Munnar police have arrested four youths in connection with climbing a cross at Pallivasal near Munnar. According to the police, the accused have been identified as Kozhikode residents Muhammed Ashmil V.M., Muhammed Nihal M.K., Muhammed Irfan V.A., and Muhammed Muktyar.Police said the incident occurred on September 19, when the four youths arrived to view the Neelakurinji bloom on the Pallivasal hills. During the visit, they allegedly climbed a cross erected by St. Anne’s Church, Pallivasal, under the Vijayapuram diocese. The youths then posted the photos on social media. Acting on a complaint filed by the church vicar, Fr. Vijosh Mulloor, the Munnar police registered a case and arrested the accused.Munnar Circle Inspector Binod Kumar J. stated that during their visit, the group met four local youths from Idukki who photographed the act, with the pictures subsequently posted online, triggering outrage. “Initially, it was believed that these youths had also climbed the cross, but a detailed probe revealed they had only shared the pictures on social media,” the official said. “Based on a separate complaint by the church vicar, police registered another case and arrested four persons, including a juvenile. The arrested individuals are Idukki Mele Chinnar residents Abhimanyu, Edwin, and Navajith. One of the accused, Abhimanyu, did not visit the hill and only posted the pictures online,” said the official.The official noted that the cross, situated at the hilltop, stands approximately 20 feet tall. “If anyone falls from the cross, it could lead to a major tragedy,” Mr. Kumar said.Fr. Mulloor noted that beyond desecration of the cross, the church’s primary concern was the risk of fatal accidents. “We do not know the intention behind such acts. The church has requested police surveillance in the area to prevent such dangerous stunts,” the priest said. Officials said the unobstructed view of the surrounding hills from atop the cross likely prompted the youths to climb it. Published - September 28, 2026 08:11 pm IST