KOCHI: Goa Governor P. S. Sreedharan Pillai has ignited a controversy with his recent remarks regarding the demographic changes in Goa. Speaking at an event in Ernakulam on Saturday, Pillai highlighted a shift in the religious composition of the coastal state, noting a decrease in the Christian population from 36% to 25% and an increase in the Muslim population from 3% to 12%.
During his speech, Pillai recounted a conversation with a senior clergyman about these changes and suggested that a study be conducted to understand the reasons behind them. His comments have stirred debate and controversy, with critics questioning the implications of his statements.
In a follow-up clarification on Sunday, Pillai emphasized that his remarks were not intended to target any particular religion but were meant to highlight the changes in demographic statistics over time. He referred to data indicating a drop in the Christian population from around 35% at the time of Goa’s liberation to a current figure of approximately 26%. Pillai attributed these changes partly to factors such as brain drain and migration.
The controversy surrounding Pillai’s comments has sparked discussions on social media and among political circles, with various opinions emerging on the implications of the shifting demographics in Goa.
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