MAPUSA
The Calangute Panchayat on Tuesday filed a formal complaint at the local police station, seeking the registration of an FIR against Gautam Khattar for allegedly making derogatory and objectionable remarks about St Francis Xavier, which hurt the religious sentiments of the Christian community in the coastal village and across the State.
The panchayat warned that if action is not taken quickly, it could lead to large-scale protests by residents of Calangute.
In the complaint, the panchayat said Khattar used offensive language against the revered saint during a recent event, causing anger and concern among residents.
“These statements have hurt members of the Catholic community and created tension in the village. The remarks have deeply hurt the religious sentiments of our villagers and people across Goa,” said Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira.
Condemning the incident, Sequeira said Goa has long been a symbol of communal harmony.
“What happened at the event in Mormugao is not right. Hindus, Muslims and Christians have always lived together peacefully in this State. Such statements try to divide people,” he added.
The complaint, signed by the sarpanch and panchayat members, highlighted the importance of St Francis Xavier as the patron saint of Goa, describing him as a spiritual figure of great religious, cultural and historical value. “Any insult or derogatory statement against the saint is unacceptable,” it said.
Panchayat member Geeta Parab also called for quick action from the State government.
“Christians and Hindus have always lived in harmony in Goa and share deep faith in St Francis Xavier. Incidents like the one in Mormugao should not happen again. We have approached the police seeking action and urge the Chief Minister to step in,” she said.
