Tue Oct 08 01:02:19 UTC 2024: ## Goa Erupts in Protest: Calls for Arrest of Former RSS Leader Over Anti-Saint Remarks

**Panaji, Goa:** Tensions escalated in Goa on Sunday as members of the Christian community took to the streets demanding the arrest of Subhash Velingkar, a former RSS leader, for his controversial remarks about St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the state.

Protests erupted in Old Goa, with locals and political leaders calling for action against Velingkar. Demonstrations were also planned in Margao, leading to clashes with police on Saturday night, resulting in five arrests.

The protests stem from Velingkar’s recent statements criticizing St Francis Xavier, which have been condemned by the Goan Catholic community as deeply offensive and hurtful to their religious sentiments. The Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) has called for strict action against Velingkar for attempting to disrupt communal harmony.

The incident has drawn strong condemnation from opposition leaders, with Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Congress party, accusing the BJP of deliberately stoking communal tensions. He asserted that Goa’s harmony is under attack under BJP rule.

Velingkar, facing over 12 cases for hurting religious sentiments, has sought anticipatory bail. However, the court has deferred the decision until Monday.

The Goa Church authorities, while condemning Velingkar’s remarks, have appealed for peace and restraint amidst the growing unrest. The situation remains tense, with police monitoring the situation closely to prevent further escalation.

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