MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday assured the Goa Legislative Assembly that incidents similar to the controversial arrest of Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh will not take place in the State.
Emphasising Goa’s inclusive ethos, Sawant reiterated the government's commitment to protecting all religious communities under the law.
“We follow the Uniform Civil Code. People of Goa should not fear. We respect all communities and ensure their protection,” Sawant said while responding to concerns raised by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao.
Alemao drew the House’s attention to the recent arrest of Kerala-based Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh, allegedly on fabricated charges of forced conversion and human trafficking.
He condemned the incident, stating it was based on a “bogus complaint” and highlighted that even the court had termed the arrests "highly suspicious."
“The nuns, who were missionaries engaged in helping the poor, were subjected to harassment and incarceration without substantial evidence. Why should people always have to approach the court when the government should protect them?” Alemao questioned, calling for greater safeguards against religious persecution.
The incident in Chhattisgarh had triggered widespread outrage, particularly across South India, where Christian organisations, civil society groups and political leaders decried what they termed a growing intolerance towards minority communities engaged in social service.
Responding to Alemao’s concerns, Chief Minister Sawant maintained that Goa’s socio-religious fabric remains strong and inclusive.
“Goa is a shining example of communal harmony. We do not allow religious discrimination or baseless targeting of individuals or groups. The rule of law prevails in our State,” he assured.
