Goa is conversion-free: Goa deputy CM

Panaji, Dec 19: Goa is a "conversion-free" state and the raging re-conversion controversy is "no big issue" here, Deputy Chief Minister Francis D'Souza said Friday.

D'Souza was speaking to reporters after meeting Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat, who was in Panaji to attend a social event.

When asked if the re-conversion issue and controversies, which have disrupted proceedings in parliament for several days, could have ramifications in Goa, which has 26 percent Christian population, D'Souza said: "Not really. In Goa, there are no forced conversions of any sort. Goa is very conversion-free that way. Everyone has a right to practise their own religion."

D'Souza also said the re-conversion issue was actually not a big deal.

"I think there is no big issue basically. It is not a pressing issue that way," said D'Souza.

The deputy chief minister also said that Goa does not need an anti-conversion bill.

He said: "There are too many laws and there is no need to add to the laws. It has to be your own decision whether to choose your religion or not."

IANS