Wed Oct 09 00:23:45 UTC 2024: ## Goa Leader of Opposition Claims Goans Foiled BJP & RSS Attempt to Create Communal Tension

**Panaji, Oct 7 (PTI)** – Goa’s Leader of Opposition, Yuri Alemao, has accused the BJP and RSS of attempting to create communal disharmony in the state, claiming these efforts were thwarted by Goans themselves.

Alemao’s comments come after protests erupted in Goa demanding the arrest of former Goa RSS chief Subhash Velingkar for his controversial remarks about St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. These remarks were made in the lead-up to the upcoming decennial exposition of the saint’s relics, scheduled for November 2024 to January 2025.

Bicholim police in North Goa have registered a case against Velingkar for hurting religious sentiments. Alemao alleged that Velingkar’s statement was a deliberate attempt to incite communal tension.

The Congress leader further criticized the BJP, stating that the party’s “heartlessness” is evident from the recent incidents in Manipur. He raised concerns that Goa could face a similar situation, expressing frustration over the Goa assembly Speaker’s refusal to discuss the Manipur events.

Despite the attempts to create unrest, Alemao highlighted the strong response from the people of Goa, who have filed numerous complaints against Velingkar and refused to succumb to the pressure of communal tension.

Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has assured action against Velingkar as per the law.

Read More