Medical student alleges inappropriate behaviour by Goa priest
A Goan-origin medical student in the United States has complained of inappropriate behaviour by a priest in June. The management of Shree Mangueshi temple said that it could not come across ‘dependable evidence’ after the incident was reported.
The woman in her complaint to the managing committee of Shree Manguesh Devasthan in South Goa’s Mangeshi village said that she along with her parents had visited the temple on June 22.
"He (priest) came to the locker area (outside the sanctum) and on the pretext of asking me to take ''pradakshina'', he beckoned me to come near and put his arm around my shoulders. He then proceeded to tightly hug me and attempted to kiss me," she said in her complaint to the temple committee.
The medical student said she was ‘traumatised and repulsed’ by the conduct of the priest.
"As part of investigation, the committee must review the footage of June 22,” said the girl. She was so shocked that she could narrate the incident to her mother only after they returned to Mumbai, she added.
The complaint was discussed at an emergency meeting of the managing committee on July 4, Shree Manguesh Devasthan Secretary Anil Kenkre wrote in response on July 11.
"During the enquiry, the committee could not lay hands on any dependable evidence to establish a prima facie case," Mr Kenkre said and urged her to take up her grievance with an "appropriate authority".
Shree Mangueshi temple is considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva and is home to Lord Manguesh. It is one of the most visited temples in the state, by locals and tourists.
