Panaji, April 20, 2026 — A political storm has broken out in Goa after right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar allegedly made derogatory remarks against St Francis Xavier, the revered patron saint of the coastal state, widely known among locals as "Goencho Saib." The comments, made during a public event in Vasco da Gama on Saturday evening, have sparked widespread outrage, particularly among the Christian community, and prompted swift police action.
Khattar, founder of the Sanatan Mahasangh, reportedly referred to the 16th-century Catholic missionary as a "terrorist" and "cruel ruler" while addressing the gathering. In a video that quickly went viral, he is heard saying phrases such as "His body was eaten by worms. Neither the soul remained nor the body survived. Even his bones were chewed up and reduced to pieces by worms." The event was attended by State Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho and BJP MLAs Sankulp Amonkar and Daji (Krishna) Salkar, along with Swami Brahmeshanand.
Congress leader Peter D'Souza lodged a police complaint accusing Khattar of deliberately hurting religious sentiments. Goa Police registered an FIR against him late on Sunday night under relevant sections for promoting enmity and outraging religious feelings. A senior police official stated that further action would be taken as per the law. Opposition parties, including the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), have demanded Khattar's immediate arrest and criticized the presence of BJP leaders at the event, questioning why they did not intervene.
Congress spokesperson D'Costa strongly condemned the remarks, saying they insulted "Goencho Saib" and hurt the sentiments of Goans ("Goemkars"). Several other leaders, including Calangute MLA Michael Lobo and figures like Dr Ketan Bhatikar, echoed the condemnation, emphasizing St Francis Xavier's deep significance to Goa's cultural and religious identity. The saint's relics are preserved at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, a major pilgrimage site.
The incident has raised fears of communal disharmony in Goa, a state known for its syncretic culture and significant Catholic population. Critics have pointed to the silence of those present on stage as tacit approval. Some voices have called for action not only against Khattar but also against the event organizers.
This is not the first time remarks involving St Francis Xavier have stirred controversy in Goa. In 2024, former RSS leader Subhash Velingkar faced protests for suggesting a "DNA test" on the saint's relics and questioning his status as the state's protector, advocating instead for the Hindu deity Parshuram. Historical debates often reference Xavier's role in advocating for the Goa Inquisition (established after his death in 1552) and efforts to spread Christianity under Portuguese rule, which some view critically as linked to forced conversions and suppression of local traditions.
As of now, no arrests have been reported, and the situation remains tense. Authorities are monitoring developments to prevent any escalation. The controversy highlights the sensitive intersection of faith, history, and politics in Goa, where St Francis Xavier continues to hold profound emotional and spiritual importance for many residents.
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