MAPUSA
Anger over the alleged derogatory remarks against Goencho Saib – St Francis Xavier – has spilled far beyond Goa’s shores, with Goans living in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world coming together in protest, condemning the statements and demanding swift action against Gautam Khattar.
In London, groups of Goans gathered in areas such as Hounslow and Heston, raising their voices in solidarity against what they described as an attack on their faith and identity.
Coming together and invoking the legacy of Goa’s patron saint, the diaspora called for the immediate arrest of Khattar and accountability from those present at the event where the remarks were made.
The controversy stems from a recent public event in Vasco where Khattar made offensive remarks about St Francis Xavier, deeply hurting religious sentiments. The presence of political leaders at the event, and their failure to intervene, has further fuelled outrage among Goans both in the State and overseas.
For many in the diaspora, the issue goes beyond a single remark – it strikes at the heart of their cultural and spiritual identity.
“We want to send a clear message to the Chief Minister that no matter where we live, our voice stands firmly with Goa,” said Agnes, who participated in the protest in London.
“The accused must be arrested. Those who sat silently when our saint was insulted must also be held accountable,” she added.
The sense of hurt was echoed by Ella, another protester in London, who said the incident had left many deeply distressed.
“We are a peaceful community, but our patience should not be mistaken for weakness. Goa has always stood for communal harmony – Hindus, Muslims and Christians living as one – and we will not tolerate any attempt to divide us,” she said.
The wave of protests was not limited to the UK. In Dublin, Ireland, members of the Goan community also came together, condemning the remarks and demanding strict action.
Teotonio Costa said such incidents were part of a worrying pattern.
“There have been attempts in the past to disturb communal harmony in Goa. The government must act decisively – not only against the speaker but also against those who organised the event,” he said.
Voices of concern also emerged from elsewhere in Europe.
Alister, a Goan based in Oslo, warned against growing divisive tendencies. “These forces want to break the unity that Goa is known for. The government must ensure such incidents are not repeated,” he said.
Apart from demanding Khattar’s arrest, protesters have also called for action against Mauvin Godinho, alleging that the minister, who was present at the event, failed to intervene when the remarks were made. Some also criticised other elected representatives in attendance, questioning their silence.
For the Goan diaspora, the protests have become a moment of collective assertion – a reaffirmation that distance has not diluted their connection to Goa or to the legacy of St Francis Xavier.
As demonstrations continue across cities, the message from overseas Goans is clear: their faith, identity and communal harmony are non-negotiable, and any attempt to undermine them will be met with unified resistance.
