It has been a trend to vitiate the atmosphere on the basis of religion, whenever the situation demands. Though the motives are unclear, it is quite disgusting that people resort to these things. The recent Velingkar's controversial religious remarks hurt sentiments due to his media statements criticising St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the state. Obviously, this is shameful and upsetting and tragic. Freedom of expression does not mean freedom to insult, belittle or sneer. Ensuring peace and harmony in the country and communities is the most sacred duty of every citizen of this country that they should maintain peace and harmony and ensure that their acts do not instigate and promote communal hatred or ill-will. The conduct of the Velingkar was an attempt to disturb the communal harmony of the Goa by trying to create a rift between the communities. It is necessary that people do not spread messages that would hurt religious sentiments. The ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity in the Preamble are relevant and meaningful because these ideals promote a common feeling of brotherhood. One should be careful while issuing statements. Remarks should not hurt the sentiments of any particular segment of the society.
