Wed Oct 09 09:43:18 UTC 2024: ## Hundreds March in Goa to Condemn Remarks Against St. Francis Xavier
**Calangute, Goa:** Hundreds of people from across the coastal belt of Calangute participated in a powerful protest march on a rainy evening, demanding action against Subhash Velingkar for his controversial remarks against St. Francis Xavier, revered as “Goencho Saib” (Lord of Goa).
The peaceful demonstration, which began at Calangute Church, saw a diverse crowd of men, women, children, nuns, and priests united in their outrage against Velingkar’s statements, which they deemed disrespectful and a threat to communal harmony. The marchers braved the downpour as they marched nearly a kilometer to the Calangute police station.
Local leaders, including Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira, Candolim Sarpanch Blaize Fernandes, and several panchayat members, stood in solidarity with the community. Even Calangute MLA Michael Lobo’s presence highlighted the political and social importance of the issue.
“We are here because one man is trying to disrupt communal harmony with his derogatory remarks against a saint revered by people of all religions,” said Lourenco Silveira, a resident of Sinquerim, expressing the shared sentiment of hurt.
The anger extended beyond the Christian community. Rajan Korgoankar, another resident, stressed that “It’s not just Christians who are offended. Hindus and Muslims also hold Goencho Saib in high regard. Velingkar’s outrageous statements have hurt us all. We won’t tolerate disrespect towards St. Francis Xavier.”
Premanand Diukar, a Calangute resident, voiced frustration with the authorities, stating, “Commenting against religion is absolutely wrong. The government must take legal action against Subhash Velingkar. If the home ministry says they cannot trace him, it means they are either incapable or intentionally not acting.”
At the Calangute police station, the protestors handed over a formal representation demanding an FIR be registered against Velingkar and his immediate arrest. The marchers emphasized that such divisive statements have no place in a community that prides itself on unity and mutual respect.
Despite the heavy rain, the protesters remained steadfast in their resolve to protect the sanctity of their faith and the harmony of their community, their collective voice shining brightly in the face of adversity.
First Piper 