Panaji:, 2 September 2026: Expressing concern over recent political statements and controversies involving Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Subhash Velingkar and others, Johnson D’Silva has cautioned against allowing Goa’s religious, linguistic and cultural identity to become a source of political confrontation.

D’Silva said it would be improper to accuse the Chief Minister or any individual of deliberately creating divisions without credible evidence. However, he maintained that the government must remain accountable for the political atmosphere created in the State and for the consequences of statements made by public figures.

Referring to the earlier controversy over remarks concerning Goencho Saib St Francis Xavier, D’Silva said the episode had caused hurt and apprehension among a section of Goans. Against this backdrop, he warned that any fresh controversy surrounding Goa’s linguistic identity should be handled with restraint and sensitivity.

He pointed out that Konkani enjoys a special constitutional and statutory position in Goa. Under the Goa Official Language Act, 1987, Konkani in the Devanagari script is the official language of the State, while Marathi is also permitted for specified official purposes.

“Supporting Marathi or any other language is not wrong in itself. What would be dangerous is the use of language, religion or cultural identity as a political weapon to divide Goans,” D’Silva said.

He stressed that Goa has historically been known for pluralism, communal harmony and peaceful coexistence, and said the State’s Konkani identity and cultural heritage should not become casualties of political calculations.

According to D’Silva, citizens have every democratic right to question whether sensitive controversies are being encouraged, exploited or unnecessarily amplified for political benefit.

Calling upon Goans to remain united and vigilant, he urged people to reject attempts by any political party or individual to create divisions on the basis of religion, language or identity.

“Goa belongs to all its people. Its peace, harmony and identity must be protected above political interests,” D’Silva said.