Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Sanatan Dharma Raksha Samiti has issued a detailed clarification regarding recent controversy surrounding remarks made by Gautam Khattar during a public programme, stating that the comments were entirely his personal views and do not reflect those of the organisers.
The Samiti clarified that Gautam Khattar was not a State Guest and that no official protocol, accommodation, transport, security or any facilities were provided by the Government of Goa. It stated that his travel, stay and other arrangements were privately managed in full.
According to the organisers, the controversy arose when Khattar made certain inappropriate and derogatory remarks about Saint Francis Xavier while on stage. The Samiti said the statements were unexpected and immediately objected to by the organisers.
It further stated that Ministers including Mauvin Godinho along with MLAs Sankalp Amonkar and Krishna Salkar intervened during the event and directed that the speaker stop his remarks. Despite this, the speaker briefly paused but later resumed, with sections of the audience reportedly encouraging him to continue. The organiser also pointed out that written requests were sent on stage asking him to stop, as seen in video footage.
The Samiti added that after the incident, Minister Mauvin Godinho addressed the gathering and stated that the remarks were inappropriate, stressing that Goa’s identity is rooted in harmony and peaceful coexistence. He urged people to uphold unity and handle sensitive issues with responsibility, avoiding actions that could disturb public peace.
Reiterating its position, the organisation said the views expressed by Khattar were solely his own and were not endorsed by the organisers or the Sanatan Dharma Raksha Samiti. It clarified that the event was organised to speak on Sanatan Dharma and not for making derogatory statements against any religious figure.
The Samiti further expressed regret and tendered an apology to the people of Goa who were hurt by the remarks, stating that it respects all communities and strongly believes in maintaining communal harmony in the State.
It also rejected statements made by MLA Vijai Sardesai, calling them factually incorrect, and reiterated that the event was purely private with no involvement or support from the Government of Goa.
The organisation concluded by reaffirming its commitment to peace, respect and harmony among all communities in Goa.
