BJP is spreading religious tension… Ruckus in Goa over RSS leader’s statement, Rahul Gandhi targets

arun Posted On October 7, 2024

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused BJP of spreading religious tension in Goa and criticized RSS leader Subhash Velingkar’s statement on St. Francis Xavier. There is anger in the Christian community after Velingkar’s statement and Bicholim police have registered a case against him.

Curated byAnubhav Shakya

Rahul Gandhi has accused BJP of spreading religious tension in Goa
Ruckus in the state over RSS leader Subhash Velingkar’s statement
Velingkar had made controversial remarks about St. Francis Xavier

New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused BJP of spreading religious tension in Goa. Rahul has objected to RSS leader Subhash Velingkar’s statement on St. Francis Xavier. St. Francis Xavier is called the protector of Goa.

Ruckus over which statement of RSS leader?

Rahul Gandhi posted on Instagram, ‘The beauty of Goa lies in the warmth and diversity of its people. Unfortunately, this harmony is being attacked under BJP rule.’ Velingkar had demanded a ‘DNA test’ of the remains of St. Francis Xavier. He also questioned the use of Xavier as ‘Goencho Saib’ (protector of Goa). His statement has angered the Christian community of the state. Many complaints have been filed and protests are taking place.

Rahul Gandhi cornered BJP-RSS

Rahul Gandhi said, ‘The Sangh Parivar is doing similar work all over India and is getting support from the top. The strategy of BJP in Goa is clear: divide people and illegally occupy green land by breaking environmental rules. This is an attack on Goa’s natural and social heritage. These efforts of BJP will be opposed. The people of Goa and all over India understand this divisive agenda and are united.’

Local people protested

On Sunday, local leaders along with the people protested in Old Goa. They demanded action against Velingkar. The protesters submitted a memorandum to the police. They demanded that Velingkar be kept out of the state till the display of the relics of St. Francis Xavier. This exhibition will run from November 2024 to January 2025.

Police registered a case

On Friday, the Bicholim police registered a case against Velingkar under section 299 of the Indian Justice Code. This section deals with hurting religious sentiments. It is being said that Velingkar is absconding and the police is searching for him. However, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has appealed to maintain peace. He has assured the people that the law will do its job. He reiterated that the same action will be taken against Velingkar as was done in the case of Father Bolmax Pereira. Pereira was arrested for allegedly making inflammatory remarks.