Tension has emerged in Anjuna, Bardez, after local residents submitted a formal complaint at the Anjuna Police Station demanding the registration of an FIR over alleged derogatory remarks made against St. Francis Xavier.
According to the complaint filed on April 20, the incident reportedly took place on April 18 during a Parshuram Jayanti celebration in Vasco da Gama. Villagers have alleged that a speaker, identified as Gautam Khattar, made “highly insulting and inflammatory” statements targeting the revered saint in a public gathering.
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Residents claim that the remarks were deliberate and intended to outrage religious sentiments and disturb communal harmony. Members of the Catholic community have expressed strong resentment, stating that the comments have deeply hurt their faith.
The complaint also raises concerns about the role of event organisers, alleging that they failed to prevent such statements and allowed a platform for potentially provocative content. Villagers have termed this a serious lapse in responsibility.
Demanding prompt action, the complainants have urged police to register an FIR under relevant legal provisions and initiate strict proceedings against those involved. Police sources have confirmed receipt of the complaint, and further inquiry into the matter is expected.
