Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai recently stirred controversy with his remarks on the changing religious demographics in the state. During an event in Ernakulam, he stated that the Christian population in Goa had fallen from 36% to 25%, while the Muslim population had risen from 3% to 12%. The governor mentioned that during a conversation with a senior clergyman, he suggested conducting a study to understand these demographic changes.
At a separate event the following day, Pillai clarified his statement, emphasizing that his comments were not meant to target any religion. He explained that at the time of Goa’s liberation from Portuguese rule, Christians made up around 35% of the population. Now, however, this number has decreased, with some reports suggesting it could be as low as 26%. He mentioned that one potential factor behind this shift could be brain drain, with many Goans emigrating abroad in search of better opportunities.
The governor’s comments have sparked a debate, especially around the reasons behind the demographic changes in Goa. While some see this as a matter of migration and economic factors, others are concerned about the political implications of discussing religious population shifts in the state. The statement has drawn reactions from various quarters, with some appreciating the governor’s call for further study, while others view it as an attempt to stoke controversy.
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