Church Condemns Derogatory Remarks against St Francis Xavier, Police File FIR against Gautam Khattar

Panaji, Goa, April 20, 2026 — The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman has expressed deep hurt and concern following remarks made against St. Francis Xavier, the beloved patron saint of Goa affectionately known as Gõycho Saib, during a public event in Vasco. Goa Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar, founder of Sanatan Mahasangh, for allegedly making derogatory statements that have sparked widespread outrage and protests across the state.

The incident occurred on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at a Bhagwan Parshuram Janmotsav event organised in Vasco. A video of Khattar's speech, delivered in the presence of several dignitaries including State Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho and BJP MLAs, went viral, prompting strong condemnation from various sections of Goan society. Complaints, including one from Congress functionary Peter D'Souza, were filed at Vasco Police Station, leading to the FIR for hurting religious sentiments.

In an official statement issued from Archbishop’s House, Panaji, on April 20, the Archdiocese, through Fr. Barry Cardozo, Director of the Diocesan Centre for Social Communications Media, described the remarks as “derogatory and insulting.” The statement emphasised that such divisive rhetoric, “laced with falsehoods and venom,” has deeply wounded the sentiments of lakhs of Goans—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—who hold St. Francis Xavier in the highest esteem. Revered not only in Goa but by millions worldwide, the saint symbolises love, fraternity, and service.

The Church noted that these statements risk disturbing the long-cherished communal harmony that has defined Goa for centuries. “We unequivocally reject and condemn these pernicious statements,” the Archdiocese declared. It urged civil authorities to take “immediate, strong and exemplary action” against those responsible for this alleged hate speech, in accordance with the laws of the land.

At the same time, the statement appealed to all citizens to remain calm and exercise restraint: “In the spirit of Jesus Christ, we stand firm in truth and choose the path of peace. May St. Francis Xavier intercede for us and bring healing to every troubled heart. May his spirit of love and fraternity continue to guide us all towards ever greater unity and peace in these troubled times.”

The controversy has triggered protests in several parts of Goa, with people from different communities demanding swift justice and a public apology. Many Goans, irrespective of faith, have voiced their shared reverence for the saint and their commitment to preserving the state’s tradition of mutual respect and harmony.

By Catholic Connect Reporter