Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Apr 20: Goa Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against YouTuber Gautam Khattar for allegedly making objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, triggering widespread outrage and political reactions across the state.
According to police sources, the FIR was filed on Sunday night after a video of Khattar’s speech at a public event went viral on social media. Superintendent of Police (South), Santosh Desai, confirmed that the case has been registered for hurting religious sentiments, and further legal action will follow as per procedure.
The incident occurred during a programme organised by the Sanatan Dharma Raksha Samiti in Mormugao on the occasion of Bhagwan Parshuram Janmotsav. The event was attended by several political figures, including State Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho and BJP MLAs Sankulp Amonkar and Daji Salkar.
The complaint was lodged by Congress leader Peter D’Souza at Vasco police station, alleging that the remarks were intended to hurt the religious sentiments of the Christian community.
The controversy has sparked strong reactions from leaders across party lines. Congress MLA Altone D’Costa demanded immediate action, stating that such remarks could disturb communal harmony in Goa. Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao and Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai also called for strict action, emphasising that divisive statements have no place in the state’s inclusive culture.
Meanwhile, the organisers, Sanatan Dharma Raksha Samiti, have distanced themselves from the remarks and issued an apology. In a statement, the group expressed regret and clarified that they did not anticipate such comments, adding that efforts were made to stop the speech during the event.
The relics of St Francis Xavier are preserved at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws thousands of devotees and visitors from across the world each year.
Police have stated that the investigation is ongoing and assured that appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the law. Authorities have also appealed to the public to maintain peace and refrain from sharing inflammatory content on social media.
Goa, known for its long-standing tradition of communal harmony, has witnessed appeals from various community leaders urging restraint and mutual respect during this time.