Captain Viriato Fernandes, a Congress candidate in South Goa, stirred controversy by claiming that the Constitution was imposed on Goans against their will and calling for dual citizenship.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant denounced Fernandes’ remarks, saying, “Congress must abandon this reckless Bharat todo politics immediately.”
During a campaign rally, Fernandes revealed that he had raised the issue of dual citizenship with Rahul Gandhi in 2019. However, Gandhi informed him that it was unconstitutional.
Fernandes defended his stance, arguing that Goa was an independent entity when the Constitution took effect in 1950 and that it was imposed upon them in 1961. He cited Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s speech in Panaji, where he asserted that Goans would determine their own destiny.
Fernandes claimed that Goans seek Portuguese citizenship due to a lack of job opportunities in Goa. He emphasized that it was not an indication of their affection for Portugal but rather a search for opportunities.
Sawant condemned Fernandes’ allegations that the Constitution was imposed forcefully, emphasizing that freedom fighters firmly believed Goa was an integral part of India. He accused Congress of endangering democracy and undermining the Constitution.
BJP spokesperson Giriraj Pai Vernekar criticized Fernandes’ comments as unfortunate, expressing disappointment in the former Naval officer’s stance, which he perceived as undermining national interests.
Archbishop Felipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, the Archbishop of Goa, released a directive on April 15th, instructing Catholics to support secular candidates who uphold constitutional values.
