BELAGAVI
A strong wave of condemnation has erupted across Goan settlers in the Upper Ghats region and parts of southern Maharashtra following alleged derogatory remarks made by Gautam Khattar in Goa against St Francis Xavier, widely revered as ‘Goencho Saib’.
Religious leaders, lay representatives, and community members have expressed deep anguish, calling for immediate action and urging authorities to uphold communal harmony.
Leading the condemnation, Bishop of Belgaum Derek Fernandes described the remarks as “deeply offensive, morally unacceptable, and hurtful to the sentiments of millions.”
He emphasised that St Francis Xavier, venerated not only by Christians but also respected across communities, represents a legacy of compassion, service, and unity that transcends religious boundaries.
“Such irresponsible statements have caused profound shock among the faithful and all right-thinking individuals,” said Bishop Fernandes, while also the remarks stem from a lack of understanding of the saint’s enduring legacy.
Echoing similar sentiments, senior priest Fr Nelson Pinto stated that respect for what is sacred to any community is a fundamental principle of a civilised society.
“Public platforms must never be misused to hurt religious sentiments or sow division. Instead, they should promote unity and mutual respect,” he said, adding that he stood in solidarity with the faithful across the region in condemning the offensive comments.
The Public Relations Office of the Diocese of Belgaum also issued a strong statement, terming the remarks as “intolerable” and questioning the apparent lack of serious response from authorities.
The office raised concerns over whether similar comments directed at leaders of other faiths would be treated with the same indifference, warning against the normalisation of such rhetoric.
Calling for accountability, clergy members including Fr Pramod Kumar urged Khattar to introspect and seek forgiveness.
“God, in His mercy, forgives the repentant heart, and so too will the Christian community. However, if such attitudes persist, society must confront the grave question of where it is headed without brotherhood,” stated Fr Kumar.
Adding to the criticism, Fr Joe Monteiro termed the remarks as an attempt to malign the secular fabric of Goa and warned against divisive ideologies. He emphasised that the peace and harmony of Goa must not be undermined by repeated provocations.
Lay leaders also voiced strong objections. Community representative Jerome Andrade described the remarks as “communal and hateful,” alleging that such statements were aimed at disturbing the region’s social harmony. He highlighted the deep devotion of thousands who annually visit Goa to venerate the relics of St Francis Xavier, noting that such comments insult both faith and shared heritage.
Amid rising tensions, community leaders and religious authorities have collectively called for restraint, accountability, and a renewed commitment to interfaith respect.
They reiterated that any attempt to undermine religious harmony must be firmly addressed to preserve the region’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.
Laity and religious leaders are looking forward for a permanent solution against the rising incidents that are harming the secular fabric of Goa.
Goan-origin Maharashtra BJP leader condemns remarks
BELAGAVI: Devraj Bardeskar, a senior BJP leader from Maharashtra who has his roots in Goa, also condemned the remarks and called for action at both state and national levels.
He stressed the importance of mutual respect among religions and urged Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to take the matter seriously.
Bardeskar further announced plans to initiate a campaign against hate speech to safeguard communal harmony.
