FIR filed against Gautam Khattar over remarks on St. Francis Xavier in Goa

The controversy over alleged objectionable remarks by right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar against St. Francis Xavier , Goa’s patron saint, intensified on Monday, with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant asserting that the state’s communal harmony cannot be compromised by outsiders .

Goa Police have registered an FIR for hurting religious sentiments against Khattar, founder of the Sanatan Mahasangh, following a complaint by Congress leader Peter D’Souza under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Superintendent of Police (South) Santosh Desai said further action will follow as per law.

The row erupted after a viral video showed Khattar addressing an event in Mormugao on Saturday during Bhagwan Parshuram Janmotsav. In the clip, he is heard making remarks perceived as insensitive and dismissive towards local sentiments and historical identity , which triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties and sections of the public. The event was attended by Swami Brahmeshanand, State Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho , and BJP MLAs Sankulp Amonkar and Daji (Krishna) Salkar .

St. Francis Xavier, revered as “Goencho Saib,” has his relics preserved at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa , a major pilgrimage site. Reacting to the controversy, Sawant said organisers must ensure speakers do not disturb harmony, adding that Godinho should have intervened , though “sometimes you cannot react on the spur of the moment.”

Opposition leaders, including Congress MLA Altone D’Costa, have demanded Khattar’s immediate arrest , alleging the remarks could disturb communal harmony . Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao and Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai also called for strict action.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) escalated its attack, demanding Khattar’s arrest and accusing the BJP of political diversion ahead of the 2027 elections. AAP leaders also sought Godinho’s resignation and an apology from BJP MLAs present at the event.

Amid mounting backlash, organisers Sanatan Dharma Raksha Samiti distanced themselves from Khattar’s remarks and issued a public apology to the Christian community. The incident has heightened political tensions, with police continuing their investigation.