THE GOAN NETWORK
MARGAO
Tension prevailed late on Friday evening outside the residence of noted Konkani writer and advocate Uday Bhembre after members of the Bajrang Dal staged a protest against his recent comments on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Led by state convenor Viraj Desai, Bajrang Dal activists gathered outside Bhembre’s residence, demanding clarification over his remarks. In response, the 80-year-old writer stepped out of his house to engage with the protesters.
Later, a group of residents rushed to Bhembre's house and were seen persuading the Bajrang Dal members to disperse, arguing that it was inappropriate to stage a protest at the residence of a senior citizen, aged over 80 years at the late hour.
Viraj, however, insisted that it was their right to protest against what he called the derogatory remarks made by Bhembre against Shivaji. The group of locals, however, pleaded with them to disperse, saying they could return during the daytime for a debate.
“Why do we hear such comments again and again only against Hindu rulers and Gods? Uday Bhembre has a mindset against the Hindus. If similar remarks were made against other religions and communities, there would have been a major problem,” Viraj said.
The Fatorda police arrived at the scene only at the fag end, with station in-charge PI Nathan Almeida seen having a word with Viraj Desai.
Later, speaking to the media, Viraj said: “Bhembre does not want to recognise the role played by Shivaji in Goa, including at the Betul Fort. Even Portuguese documents show Shivaji played a key role in Goa. Let Bhembre come for a debate, and we will produce all the documents.”
He added that Bhembre should seek an apology from Lord Damodar for his comments directed against Shivaji and the Hindu religion.
