Protest Erupts in Goa Over Derogatory Remarks Against Patron Saint

In South Goa's Vasco town, over a hundred protestors demanded immediate police action against Gautam Khattar, a right-wing speaker accused of making derogatory remarks against St Francis Xavier. Tensions escalated following Khattar's comments, prompting Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to announce intensified efforts to apprehend him.

A Look Out Circular has been issued by the Goa Crime Branch, alerting the Bureau of Immigration to prevent Khattar from leaving the country. Police teams have been dispatched nationwide to locate the founder of Sanatan Mahasangh, who allegedly fueled communal discord during an event on April 18 with several notable figures present.

On Thursday, approximately 150 people assembled at Vasco's Tilak Maidan, protesting not only Khattar's comments but also targeting event organizers. Former state minister Jose Philip D'Souza and local leaders joined the protest, criticizing the awareness of Khattar's controversial background. Meanwhile, Khattar's brother, Madhav, was arrested in Uttarakhand for aiding in the creation and dissemination of the incendiary speech, as investigations continue.