Controversy Surrounds Former RSS Goa Chief Over Sentiments Case

Subhash Velingkar, former RSS Goa chief, appeared for police questioning over allegations of hurting religious sentiments concerning his comments on St. Francis Xavier. Velingkar has applied for pre-arrest bail while cooperating with authorities amidst ongoing protests and multiple police complaints. The court will discuss his anticipatory bail request next Tuesday.

Subhash Velingkar, the former chief of the RSS in Goa, presented himself to the police for the second day in a row on Friday regarding allegations of hurting religious sentiments.

The Bicholim police have initiated a case against Velingkar following his controversial remarks about St. Francis Xavier, who is regarded as the patron saint of Goa. In response, Velingkar has submitted a pre-arrest bail application to the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court.

During his appearance, Velingkar stated, 'I appeared before the investigating officer and provided all required information. I am cooperating with the police.' The court has scheduled a hearing for his anticipatory bail request on Tuesday, following his lawyer's assurance of Velingkar's willingness to cooperate.

On Thursday evening, Velingkar met with the police and returned for further discussion on Friday morning, departing after an hour. However, he withheld comments on his statement about St. Francis Xavier, citing the ongoing legal process.

The incident has sparked over half a dozen police complaints and protests against Velingkar in various locations across the state last week.