A political storm has emerged in Goa following derogatory remarks made by right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar against St Francis Xavier, the state’s revered patron saint, prompting significant backlash from the Christian community and political figures.
Panaji, April 20, 2026 — A significant political controversy has erupted in Goa after Gautam Khattar, a prominent right-wing speaker and founder of the Sanatan Mahasangh, allegedly made inflammatory remarks regarding St Francis Xavier, who is widely revered as the patron saint of the coastal state. The comments, delivered during a public event in Vasco da Gama on Saturday evening, have ignited outrage among the Christian community and raised questions about the role of political leaders present during the incident.
In a video that has since gone viral, Khattar is reported to have referred to St Francis Xavier, a 16th-century Catholic missionary, as a “terrorist” and a “cruel ruler.” His remarks included a graphic description of the saint’s posthumous decay, stating, “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.” This stark and provocative language has deepened the anger among many locals, who regard St Francis Xavier as a central figure in Goa’s religious and cultural heritage.
The event was attended by notable political figures, including State Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho and BJP MLAs Sankulp Amonkar and Daji (Krishna) Salkar. Their presence has raised concerns regarding their apparent inaction during Khattar’s remarks. Following the incident, Congress leader Peter D’Souza filed a police complaint against Khattar, accusing him of deliberately hurting religious sentiments. In response, the Goa Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Khattar late on Sunday, under sections pertaining to promoting enmity and outraging religious feelings.
A senior police official noted that further legal action would follow, although as of now, no arrests have been reported. Opposition parties, including the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), have called for Khattar’s immediate arrest and have criticized the BJP leaders present at the event for their silence, which many interpret as tacit approval of the remarks.
Political Reactions and Community Outrage
In the wake of Khattar’s comments, political leaders and community representatives have expressed strong condemnation. Congress spokesperson D’Costa emphasized that Khattar’s remarks were an insult to “Goencho Saib,” a title used affectionately by locals for St Francis Xavier, and deeply offended the sentiments of Goans, colloquially known as “Goemkars.” This sentiment was echoed by other political figures, including Calangute MLA Michael Lobo and prominent community members such as Dr Ketan Bhatikar, who highlighted the extensive impact of St Francis Xavier on Goa’s religious and cultural identity. The saint’s relics are enshrined at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major pilgrimage destination that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The controversy has sparked fears of potential communal disharmony in Goa, a state known for its diverse cultural landscape and significant Catholic population. Critics have pointed out the silence of the political figures on stage during Khattar’s remarks as a form of tacit endorsement, leading to calls for accountability not only for Khattar but also for the event’s organizers.
Historical Context of Controversy
This incident is not the first time that comments regarding St Francis Xavier have led to public outcry in Goa. In 2024, former Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Subhash Velingkar faced backlash after suggesting a “DNA test” on the saint’s relics and questioning his status as the protector of Goa, instead advocating for the Hindu deity Parshuram. Such historical discussions often reference Xavier’s involvement in the Goa Inquisition, established after his death in 1552, which has been criticized for its role in forced conversions and the suppression of local traditions during the Portuguese colonial period.
The present situation remains delicate, with authorities closely monitoring developments to prevent any escalation of tensions. The incident underscores the complex interplay of faith, history, and politics in Goa, where St Francis Xavier continues to hold significant emotional and spiritual importance for many residents. As the community navigates the ramifications of Khattar’s remarks, there is a palpable concern about potential political and social fallout that could further complicate the region’s already intricate socio-political landscape.
As political parties continue to voice their positions, and community leaders call for unity and respect for religious sentiments, the incident reinforces the ongoing challenges in a state that prides itself on its multicultural heritage. The coming days will likely see further developments as authorities and political leaders respond to the public’s outrage and seek to address the underlying issues raised by this controversy.
