Police complaint lodged; calls for accountability grow
VASCO
Tension escalated in Vasco after alleged derogatory remarks against St Francis Xavier were made during a public function at Tilak Maidan, drawing strong condemnation and raising concerns over communal harmony in the State.
Cortalim Congress leader Peter D’Souza on Sunday filed a police complaint, terming the incident “shameful” and deeply offensive to the religious sentiments of the Christian community. He stated that the remarks were made openly during the function, leaving several people shocked and disturbed.
In his complaint, D’Souza alleged that the objectionable comments were made by Gautam Khattar in the presence of Minister Mauvin Godinho and other MLAs, including Krishna Salkar and Sankalp Amonkar. He questioned how such statements were allowed to pass without immediate objection, stating that the presence of senior political leaders made the incident more serious and concerning.
D’Souza has demanded that the police act promptly and register a case against Khattar. He also called for accountability from the organisers of the event, along with all political representatives present, stating that failure to intervene contributed to the situation and sent a wrong message to the public.
He said that Goa has always upheld communal harmony and mutual respect among communities, and that any attempt to hurt religious sentiments or disturb social peace must be dealt with strictly and without delay. He stressed that strong action is necessary to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
Police have confirmed receipt of the complaint, and further steps are expected.
The incident has sparked reactions from various quarters, with increasing calls for strict action.
Political leaders, activists seek immediate FIR
MARGAO: Derogatory remarks made at a Vasco meeting against St Francis Xavier has sparked outrage in Salcete, with Goa Forward chief and MLA Vijai Sardesai demanding immediate registration of an FIR against Gautam Khattar for calling Goemcho Saib a “terrorist”.
Sardesai has urged Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to direct Goa Police to take cognisance, register an FIR immediately, and initiate strict action.
“An insult to our Beloved St Francis Xavier is an insult to the soul of every Goan,” he added.
Meanwhile, youth leader Warren Alemao has condemned what he termed as a shameful and hurtful statement with absolute anger and zero tolerance. “Our faith is not your playground. Touch our Saint and you provoke the united voice of Goa,” he said, adding, ‘we will not forgive. We will not forget’.
Meanwhile, social activist Pratima Coutinho has condemned the remarks by Kattar against St Francis Xavier at Vasco. Speaking at the meeting called to oppose Marathi at the Lohia Maidan, Pratima said the remarks are derogatory in nature and aimed to causing communal disharmony.
