Margao, October 6, 2024: Congress leader Olencio Simoes has made an urgent appeal to the people of Goa to avoid resorting to violence and to maintain law and order, in light of recent tensions stemming from inflammatory speeches made by Subhash Velingkar, founder of the Goa Suraksha Manch party. Simoes emphasized the need to uphold peace and harmony across the state, encouraging citizens to refrain from any form of unrest.
In an official letter to the collectors of both North and South Goa, Simoes has called for the deportation of Velingkar from Goa. He cited Velingkar’s repeated communal speeches as highly disturbing and dangerous, comparing the current situation to past instances where divisive figures were barred from entering Goa to preserve social harmony. Among these examples, Simoes referenced the 2014 ban of Sri Ram Sene chief Pramod Muthalik by then Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, as well as the exclusion of Salman Khan, a member of Hyderabad Youth Courage, along with other controversial figures.
“Mr. Subhash Velingkar’s speeches, which have been circulating widely across various platforms, are inflammatory in nature and incite hatred among different communities,” said Simoes. “This is creating a tense atmosphere in the region and is disrupting the peace and harmony that Goa is known for.”
Simoes accused Velingkar of openly promoting division among religious and ethnic communities, stating that his words are in direct violation of the principles of unity and integrity on which the nation is founded. “His provocative statements have the potential to stir violence and disturb law and order. Given the growing concern among citizens, it is imperative that swift action is taken to prevent further disruption,” he added.
The Congress leader underscored the importance of deporting or banning such elements to safeguard the tranquility of the state, just as was done in the past with other individuals whose actions threatened Goa’s communal harmony.
Simoes’ appeal comes at a critical juncture, with many in Goa worried about the potential fallout from Velingkar’s divisive rhetoric. His call to action is a plea for unity, emphasizing the need for Goans to come together to protect the state’s peace.