Goa's Interfaith Conference Tackles Hate Speech, Calls for Unity

Pilar, February 13, 2025 - The Sadbhav Sammelan, organised by Sadbhav, Pilar, Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, and DCT’s Dhempe College of Arts and Science, Miramar, brought together intellectuals and activists to discuss the dangers of hate speech and its impact on interfaith harmony on February 8. Held at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre during World Interfaith Harmony Week, the conference stressed the need for respect and inclusivity.

The event opened with a prayer by Ms. Janessa D’Mello and a Shanti Mantra chanted by Dr. Fr. Elvis Fernandes, the convenor of Sadbhav Sammelan.

Chief Guest Shri Arvind Bhatikar IAS (Retd.) highlighted legal provisions in the Indian Penal Code on hate speech, calling for both critical reflection and decisive action to combat its rise. Rev. Dr. Frederico Rodrigues, Dr. Swati Pawar, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, and Dr. Roshida Rodrigues emphasised the importance of interfaith respect, while Fr. Joaquim Rebello reinforced the universal principle, “Love your neighbour as yourself.”

Keynote Speaker Shri Sandesh Prabhudesai highlighted Goa’s deep-rooted communal harmony, noting that Konkani lacks a direct word for “hate.” He urged people to embrace secularism and Manispann (Humanity). In a session on the 'Weaponization of Social Media,' Mr. Praveen Sabnis warned against digital platforms fuelling hate, advocating responsible media use.

Concluding discussions, Ms. Tallulah D’Silva and Mr. Asim Shaikh led participants in practical strategies to counter hate-driven narratives. The conference ended with remarks from Fr. Milton Rodrigues and Ms. Sendra Florence Pereira, stressing collective responsibility for communal harmony. The event underscored the urgency of responsible speech and collective action in safeguarding interfaith harmony and social unity.

By Fr. Elvis Fernandes