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The article details rising tensions in Goa stemming from controversial remarks made by Subhash Velingkar, a former Goa unit chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), concerning the Catholic missionary St. Francis Xavier. The Christian community has taken to the streets in protest, demanding Velingkar's arrest for his remarks deemed offensive and disrespectful to the state's patron saint. Protests, including road blockades, have occurred in Old Goa and Margao, with the Goa Church authorities urging peace amidst the escalating situation.
The article highlights the role of political figures in the unfolding events, particularly the condemnation of the BJP by Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. He accuses the BJP of deliberately stoking communal tensions, citing Velingkar's remarks and the Sangh Parivar's alleged economic boycott of Muslims as examples. Gandhi claims that the divisive agenda is being exposed and the people of India are standing united against it.
The Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP), the social work wing of the Archdiocese of Goa, strongly condemns Velingkar's statements, citing their deeply offensive nature to both Catholics and other faith communities who revere St. Francis Xavier. The CSJP calls for peace and restraint among protesters while appealing to authorities to take strict action against Velingkar for his alleged attempt to disrupt communal harmony. The article concludes by noting that Velingkar has been charged with hurting religious sentiments, facing multiple cases stemming from his statements criticizing the saint. While police have not yet arrested him, he has filed for anticipatory bail, with a court decision pending.
Source: Tensions in Goa after Christians demand RSS leader's arrest over communal remarks