Rahul Gandhi reacts as protest erupts over ex-Goa RSS chief’s remarks. What’s the controversy?

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of deliberately stoking communal tensions in Goa, following the controversy surrounding comments made by former RSS leader Subhash Velingkar about St. Francis Xavier, the state’s patron saint. Lok Sabha LoP and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.(AICC) In a post on X, Gandhi said, “Goa’s appeal lies in its natural beauty and the warmth and hospitality of its diverse and harmonious people. Unfortunately, under BJP rule, this harmony is under attack.” Also Read | Savarkar defamation case: Rahul Gandhi summoned by court on October 23 The controversy erupted after Velingkar called for a “DNA test” of the relics of St. Francis Xavier and questioned the saint’s status as “Goencho Saib” (Protector of Goa). His remarks have sparked outrage among the Christian community in the state, leading to multiple complaints and protests. “Across India, similar actions by the Sangh Parivar…