In a developing news update in Goa, the land at Sancoale, which once housed a Hindu temple destroyed by the Portuguese, has become a focal point of tension between the Church and Hindu activists. The demand from Subhash Velingkar is clear: the land should be returned to Hindus for the reconstruction of a temple.
Historically, the site in question held a Hindu temple until it was dismantled by the Portuguese. The remnants of this temple were reportedly visible until 2012. However, recent developments have intensified the dispute, as it has been stated that the church, with the use of heavy machinery, removed all traces of the ancient Hindu structure. Furthermore, a pond that existed on the premises was filled by the church, and a large banyan tree was uprooted from the area.
The issue has gained momentum as Hindu groups now demand a thorough excavation of the entire area in Frontispiece of Sancoale. Subhash Velingkar, a prominent figure in Goan politics and a former RSS chief, has issued a stern warning. He threatens to launch a statewide agitation if the government and the church do not return the temple land to the Hindu community.
Subhash Velingkar, who officially joined the Goa Suraksha Manch on October 2, 2016, holds significant sway in the region.