Panaji: Amid growing tensions and mass protests against former RSS Goa chief Subhash Velingkar over his alleged offensive remarks against St Francis Xavier, Rahul Gandhi, the opposition leader in the Lok Sabha, on Sunday accused BJP of stoking communal discord, stating that the harmonious social fabric of the state was “under attack”.Gandhi said Goa’s appeal lies in its natural beauty and the warmth and hospitality of its diverse and harmonious people. However, he alleged that this harmony was being threatened by BJP’s alleged deliberate attempts to stoke communal tensions.
“Unfortunately, under BJP rule, this harmony is under attack. BJP is deliberately stoking communal tensions, with a former RSS leader provoking Christians and Sangh organisations calling for an economic boycott of Muslims,” he posted on X.
He said that similar actions by the ‘Sangh Parivar’ continue with impunity across India, backed by support from the highest levels.
“In Goa, BJP’s strategy is clear: divide the people while exploiting ecologically sensitive areas by illegally converting green land and bypassing environmental regulations—an assault on Goa’s natural and social heritage,” Gandhi said.
However, Gandhi asserted that BJP’s attempts will not go unchallenged. He expressed confidence that the people of Goa and the entire nation see through this “divisive” agenda and are standing united against it.
The Catholic community in Goa has been left outraged by the alleged objectionable statement made by Velingkar regarding St Francis Xavier, a revered figure in the state’s religious history. The controversial remarks have led to widespread protests, with people taking to the streets for the past three days, demanding Velingkar’s arrest.
The situation in Margao, which has been the epicentre of the mass protests, turned tense on Saturday night. Police resorted to mild lathicharge to control the protesters, further escalating the already charged atmosphere.
Chief minister Pramod Sawant and the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), a wing of the Church in Goa, on Saturday appealed for restraint from protesters.
Courtesy : TOI
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