People from various communities gathered in large numbers outside the Sanguem Police Station to submit a complaint against Gautam Khattar.
SANGUEM
The controversial remarks by Gautam Khattar against St Francis Xavier during an event in Vasco triggered strong reactions in Sanguem, with over 200 citizens marching to the Sanguem police station to submit a memorandum demanding his immediate arrest.
The gathering reflected growing anger among residents over Khattar’s remarks.
Amid outrage across Goa, the people raised slogans against Khattar outside the police station before signing the memorandum, urging authorities to take the matter seriously and to arrest him without delay. They also called for a permanent ban on his entry into Goa.
Those present during the protest included Sanguem municipal councillors Meshu D’Costa, Romaldo Fernandes, Fauzia Sheikh and Preeti Naik, along with panchayat members Rakhi Prabhudesai, Sandesh Gaonkar, Santosh Gaonkar and several other citizens in large numbers.
Speaking on the occasion, Meshu D’Costa alleged that in Goa, which has a tradition of communal harmony, radical organisations are attempting to disturb peace by bringing in outsiders with vested interests.
He further claimed that while people across Goa are demanding Khattar’s arrest, the police tried to defuse the situation by arresting his brother. He warned that the public will not remain silent until Khattar is arrested and punished.
Councillor Fauzia Sheikh stated that no religion teaches hatred or disrespect towards others, but certain individuals are deliberately trying to disrupt the peace prevailing in Goa, and such elements must be curbed in time.
Netravali Panch Rakhi Prabhudesai said that hurting religious sentiments is a serious offence and unless strict action is taken against those making irresponsible statements, such incidents will continue. She strongly demanded immediate action by the government against the accused.
Councillor Romaldo Fernandes, Santosh Gavkar, Usha Naik and Tony Cardozo also expressed their views, warning that if action is not taken against Khattar, the government will be held responsible for any future incidents.
