Goa, a state renowned for its culture of tolerance, open dialogue, and pluralistic values, is increasingly witnessing a disturbing trend that undermines these principles. The recent assault on the former MLA, writer and historian, Uday Bhembre, is a stark reminder of how the atmosphere of democratic debate in the country is rapidly deteriorating. It is also a disturbing example of how a section of society is willing to use threats and intimidation to silence voices of dissent, particularly when it comes to issues involving history and fact-checking.
What transpired in Margao late on Friday is deeply concerning. A group of 20-25 members of the Bajrang Dal descended on the home of Bhembre, a man who has contributed immensely to Goa’s political and cultural history, demanding an explanation for his critical take on Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s recent comments about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fact that such a group felt emboldened enough to intimidate an elderly man in his own home speaks volumes about the prevailing climate of fear and aggression.
Bhembre, now in his eighties, was not one to be easily cowed. Despite the threatening mob outside his doorstep, he stood firm, refusing to be intimidated. His family, friends, and supporters rallied to his side in a show of solidarity, and the group dispersed after hurling a series of threats. But the fact that the
incident happened at all raises serious questions about the state of law and order in Goa, and more broadly,
in India.
Bhembre, a former journalist and a prominent voice in Goa’s political and cultural movements, had published a video expressing his views on Shivaji’s role in Goa’s history, contextualising the facts in the light of historical evidence and documents. His opinions did not align with the narrative that some groups in the state are eager to promote, and it was this divergence that apparently led to the confrontation.
The Bajrang Dal activists were quick to accuse Bhembre of downplaying the atrocities committed by the Portuguese during their colonial rule and criticised his take on Shivaji’s legacy. They demanded to know why he was making such videos and insisted that he had no authority to speak on matters of history. These individuals, instead of engaging in a constructive dialogue based on facts and evidence, sought to intimidate and suppress a respected voice of reason.
One of the most disturbing aspects of this episode is the way Bhembre and his wife were forced out of their home, ridiculed, and threatened. Despite this, Bhembre’s wife attempted to reason with the group, stressing that differing opinions should be respected and that Bhembre’s views were not intended to offend anyone. This peaceful approach, however, was met with disdain and further hostility.
The response from the police, so far, has been equally disappointing. While Bhembre initially refrained from filing a complaint, he eventually approached the Fatorda police to lodge a formal complaint against the attack. Yet, despite the gravity of the situation, no FIR had been registered at the time of writing. Bhembre himself noted the alarming implications of the incident, stating that it was not just a matter of his own safety, but also the safety of the public at large. If such intimidation can be directed at a figure as respected as Bhembre, who can say it will not happen to others?
The lack of action from the police and government is troubling, especially in a state like Goa, where a culture of open dialogue and tolerance has long prevailed. Various organisations have expressed their concern and outrage over the incident. Bhembre’s video was grounded in historical facts, yet it was met with
hostility simply because it did not conform to a particular narrative.
This is not an isolated incident. Over the past few years, we have witnessed a systematic attempt to curtail free expression across the country. Journalists, intellectuals, and public figures have been harassed, jailed, or subjected to legal action for simply doing their jobs—fact-checking, speaking truth to power, or offering alternative perspectives on contentious issues. Uday Bhembre’s case mirrors this troubling pattern.
The use of threats and violence to suppress free expression cannot be allowed to flourish. If we allow such incidents to go unchallenged, we risk undermining the very fabric of our democracy. Goa, must not succumb to the divisive politics of intimidation. This state has long been a beacon of coexistence, dialogue, and mutual respect. The civil society in Goa must rise to defend its democratic values, ensuring that free expression is protected, no matter how unpopular or inconvenient the views may be.
The attack on Uday Bhembre is not just an attack on one individual; it is an attack on the principles of free speech and democracy itself. It is a reminder that no one, regardless of their age or stature, is immune from the forces that seek to silence dissent. It is imperative that the government and law enforcement agencies take immediate action to ensure that such attacks are not tolerated and that the right to free speech is
safeguarded.