The protest, led by state convenor Viraj Desai, was sparked by Bhembre’s video on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which has since created considerable debate. While Bhembre's video sought to shed light on Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, it was met with strong opposition from some groups, including Bajrang Dal, who accused him of undermining the revered historical figure.
The protest outside Bhembre’s home has ignited a wave of support for the writer from the local community and his well-wishers. A large number of people have been visiting his residence, voicing their solidarity and condemning the manner in which the Bajrang Dal group has treated him and his family. Visitors have expressed their concerns not only about the protest but also about the false accusations leveled against Bhembre, particularly the claims that he is sympathetic towards the Portuguese during India’s freedom struggle. This claim, made by the protesters, has caused further outrage, as Bhembre is the son of a renowned freedom fighter who dedicated his life to India’s independence.
The accusations of Bhembre being “pro-Portuguese” have left many locals baffled, given his father’s involvement in the freedom movement. For many, it is an outright attempt to tarnish the reputation of an individual who has contributed significantly to the cultural and historical discourse in Goa. The public outcry over these accusations has only strengthened the support for Bhembre, who has always stood firm in his stance on preserving Goan heritage and history, independent of any colonial influence.
However, the most troubling aspect of the incident has been the reported intimidation of Bhembre and his wife the night before the protest. According to sources close to the family, the Bajrang Dal group allegedly resorted to intimidating tactics, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. This has been widely condemned by the local community, who believe that such acts of aggression and intimidation have no place in a civil society.
In the aftermath of the protest, many well-wishers, local residents, and activists have rallied behind Bhembre, expressing their discontent with how the Bajrang Dal has handled the situation. Their primary grievance lies in the aggressive nature of the protest and the false portrayal of Bhembre’s views, which they argue, misrepresent his actual stance. Critics also pointed out the hypocrisy in the accusations, considering the freedom fighter legacy that runs in Bhembre’s family.
While the protest and its aftermath have garnered significant attention, they have also sparked a broader debate about the boundaries of free speech and expression in India, particularly concerning historical figures like Shivaji Maharaj. Bhembre’s supporters have voiced concerns that protests of this nature, based on selective interpretations of history, only serve to stifle intellectual discourse and discourage open dialogue.
Bhembre himself has yet to issue a formal statement on the protest, but his supporters maintain that his commitment to truth and historical accuracy remains unwavering. Many are now calling for calm and a more measured approach to resolving the matter, urging the authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals like Bhembre, who may find themselves caught in the crossfire of political and ideological battles.
This incident serves as a reminder of the growing political tensions in Goa, where debates over culture, history, and identity continue to play a prominent role in the public sphere. While the controversy surrounding Bhembre has sparked outrage, it has also brought forth a wave of solidarity from those who believe in upholding freedom of expression and protecting the integrity of Goan history and culture. Whether this solidarity can shield Bhembre from further attacks remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his story is far from over, and the debate over Goa’s past, present, and future will continue to unfold in the days ahead.
It is important to highlight that Fatorda Police Inspector Nathan Almeida arrived only at the end of the situation and spoke to the Bajrang Dal leaders. Prior to his arrival, it was Uday Bhembre's friends and family who swiftly rushed to his house last night to ensure his safety and protect him. They acted quickly upon hearing about the incident involving the Bajrang Dal protest at Bhembre’s residence. Their timely response demonstrated the strong support and solidarity from his close ones, who remained vigilant in ensuring his well-being amid the escalating tension.