Margao (Goa): Days after Sadhvi Saraswati’s hate speech grabbed national attention, Goa minister Vijai Sardesai sought to play down the controversy terming Sadhvi Saraswati as one amongst 60 lakh tourists visiting Goa.

“Goa has 60 lakh tourists coming in the state including these kind of Sarswatis. They don’t know what is goenkarpoon. They make a controversial statement basically to gain some cheap publicity you get some mileage,” Sardesai said.

Sadhvi Saraswati during her address to All India Hindu Convention had said that the people who eat beef should be hanged in public.

Sardesai said Sadhvi Saraswati is welcome to visit Goa as a tourist but she can come but she cannot make irresponsible statement during her visit here.

“If they continue talking like this we can’t shut their mouth but if communal disharmony is created due to the statement, then government will come down heavily on them,” the minister said.

“I am speaking not as Goa forward party alone but I am speaking as the minister of Goa government. Goa government stand is that anybody who intends to take law intheir hand would be sternly acted upon,” Sardesai clarified.

“Strong action would be taken against anybody, whichever colour he may be wearing,” he added.

The minister said “backbone of this government is communal harmony and we will protect it.”

“Indian constitution does not forbid you to become Gau Rakshak, but when you come to Goa you should know that for every gau rakshak there is a Goa rakshak,” he commented.

Team TNV