‘Mandir Yahin Banega’: St Stephen’s Chapel Door Vandalised

‘Mandir yahin banega’ (‘The temple will be constructed here’) was what was scribbled on the door of St Stephen’s College chapel at the University of Delhi. That’s not all, apparently, the cross outside the church had the words, “I’m going to hell” written on it.

So this is what happens in the so called progressive space of St Stephens. Effacing the Chapel gate with a ‘Mandir Yahin Banega!’

Part of Stephenian pride stems from the sustained silencing of histories of oppression, that helps maintain the illusion of ‘liberalism.’ pic.twitter.com/VKd8zGFqn5

— Avantika Tewari (@Avantikatewari) May 4, 2018

According to a media report, the pro-Hindutva slogan was first noticed on the evening of Friday, 4 May. No one knows who wrote it or for how long it’s been up there because there have been no regular classes due to the looming Delhi University exams.

Students Union President Sai Aashirwaad said, “Inflammatory quotes like ‘Mandir yahin banega’ were found written on the chapel’s main door, while an ‘Om’ symbol along with the words, “I'm going to hell” was found on the cross situated behind the chapel yesterday (Friday).

“The messages, however, were cleared today (Saturday),” he said.

Principal John Varghese was unavailable for comments.

The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), in its statement, condemned the attack and demanded strict action against the perpetrator(s). The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) too voiced its concern against such vandalism in universities.

(With PTI inputs)

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