Rahul Gandhi Accuses BJP of Fueling Communal Tensions in Goa

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of deliberately exacerbating communal tensions in Goa. His claims arise amidst ongoing controversy related to comments made by former Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Subhash Velingkar regarding St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the state.

Gandhi took to social media platform X, stating, “Goa’s appeal lies in its natural beauty and the warmth and hospitality of its diverse and harmonious people. Unfortunately, under BJP rule, this harmony is under attack.” His statement comes after Velingkar suggested conducting a “DNA test” on the relics of St. Francis Xavier and questioned the saint’s role as “Goencho Saib” or Protector of Goa.

The remarks have incited anger among the state’s Christian community, resulting in numerous complaints and public protests. Gandhi further emphasized, “Across India, similar actions by the Sangh Parivar continue with impunity, backed by support from the highest levels,” and accused the BJP of using divisive strategies while exploiting Goa’s ecologically sensitive areas through illegal land conversions.

Protests have been staged in Old Goa, where local political leaders and citizens demanded penal action against Velingkar for his inflammatory remarks. Protesters have called for his externment until the decennial exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s relics, scheduled to take place from November 2024 to January 2025. A memorandum was submitted to the police regarding this demand.

On Friday, a case was registered against Velingkar by the Bicholim police for “hurting religious sentiments” under Section 299 of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities reported that he is currently missing, with police raids underway to locate him. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has urged for calm and assured that due legal procedures will be followed, asserting that “similar action will be applied for Velingkar” akin to that taken in the case of Father Bolmax Pereira, another provocative figure recently involved in disputes.

In a related demonstration, hundreds of residents from the Calangute constituency participated in a silent candlelight protest on Tuesday. The march, which began at Dolphin Circle in front of St. Alex Church and concluded near Calangute police station, featured the presence of local panchayat members, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, and other activists.

Lobo commented on the situation, saying, “Saint Francis Xavier is an integral part of Goa’s history and culture. I urge the authorities to take strict action against those who try to disrupt our social harmony.” Protesters highlighted what they perceive as governmental inaction in arresting Velingkar, suggesting that his comments are a tactic to divert attention from alleged government plans that could undermine Goa’s cultural and environmental integrity.