VASCO
Political leaders from Mormugao taluka cutting across party lines have strongly condemned the derogatory remarks made against St Francis Xavier during a recent event in Vasco, with many calling for strict legal action and cautioning against attempts to disturb communal harmony in the state.
Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar termed the remarks as unacceptable and warned that such statements could disturb the peaceful fabric of Goa.
Salkar added that he has spoken to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who has assured that immediate action will be taken against those responsible.
"I was invited to the programme but I was not aware of the speaker and his intentions. I strongly condemn the remarks made against St Francis Xavier which have hurt the sentiments of people. Such statements are completely unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Strict action must be taken against those responsible, and people must ensure that peace and communal harmony in Goa are maintained,” Salkar said.
Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar also condemned the statements made by Gautam Khattar, stating that he had attended the Parshuram Jayanti function only as an invited guest and was unaware of the speakers. He said the objectionable speech was attempted to be stopped during the event.
“I was invited as a guest and had no prior knowledge about the speakers. When the remarks were made, we tried to stop the speaker, but he continued. I have briefed the Chief Minister about the entire incident and sought strict action. Assurance has been given that an FIR will be registered and necessary action will follow,” Amonkar said.
South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes strongly criticised the incident, alleging a pattern behind such events.
“I condemn the statements insulting St Francis Xavier which have hurt devotees across the globe. There have been multiple such incidents, and it appears to be a pattern to divert attention and create division. However, Goa stands for communal harmony, and such attempts will not succeed,” Fernandes said.
Cortalim MLA Anton Vaz and ZP member Merciana Vaz also condemned the remarks, calling them abusive and intolerable.
“We strongly condemn the remarks made against our Patron Saint, Goencho Saib St Francis Xavier. We appeal to the police to take strict action against the accused and ensure such incidents are not repeated. We also appeal to the Chief Minister & the police authorities to kindly take strong action against him and all such institutions and ban him from entering our State of Goa,” said Anton Vaz.
