Arrest of Right-Wing Leader Sparks Controversy in Goa

Gautam Khattar, a right-wing speaker sought by Goa police for offensive comments against the revered St Francis Xavier, was apprehended by Himachal Pradesh police on Friday. The arrest occurred in Kullu district, as confirmed by Superintendent of Police (Crime Branch) Rahul Gupta in Panaji.

Khattar, who founded the Sanatan Mahasangh, faced a non-bailable warrant issued by a Goa court following a controversial speech. The speech, made at an event attended by senior political figures, went viral, triggering public outrage and a police investigation.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had assured Khattar's arrest within two days. Meanwhile, Khattar's brother was detained in Uttarakhand. The Goa police are preparing to take Khattar into custody and conclude the high-profile case.

(With inputs from agencies.)