Director of Tourism, Shri. Kedar Naik, today has written to the Superintendent of Police, North Goa, with a copy to the Superintendent of Police, Tourist Police, seeking identification of the person involved in the alleged incident and strict action in accordance with law. The Department has also called for action against touting and unauthorised solicitation in Baga, Calangute and other high-footfall tourism locations.
According to the account shared by Mr. Narvekar on his Facebook post, he was observing the tourism situation in Baga when he allegedly witnessed an individual soliciting a group of domestic tourists. When he intervened to caution the tourist, the individual allegedly confronted and manhandled him before leaving the area through the rear of a restaurant.
Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Goa, Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte, strongly condemned the alleged attack and said: “I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on journalist Sameep Narvekar who stepped in to protect tourists from illegal touts. Those responsible will face strict action. As Tourism Minister, I deeply appreciate the gesture of Sameep Narvekar who did his part as a true Goemkar. We need more such proactive citizens to eradicate the maladies that affect Goa’s tourism sector.” The Tourism Minister has reiterated that touting is a menace that impacts the reputation of Goa’s tourism sector negatively, and that there can be no compromise on the safety, dignity and experience of visitors to the state.
Director of Tourism, Shri. Kedar Naik added: “The Department of Tourism strongly condemns the alleged attack on local journalist Mr. Sameep Narvekar. We have written to the Goa Police seeking immediate action against those involved in the incident. The Department has a zero-tolerance approach towards touting, unauthorised solicitation, violence, intimidation and threatening behaviour. We will continue to work closely with the enforcement agencies to ensure that those involved are identified and dealt with strictly in accordance with law.”
The Department of Tourism said touting and unauthorised solicitation have no place in Goa’s tourism ecosystem and, reiterated its commitment to protecting the safety and confidence of tourists, residents, journalists and all members of the public.
Baga and Calangute are among Goa’s major tourism areas and witness significant tourist footfall throughout the year. The Department called for the cooperation of the public and enforcement agencies in ensuring that tourism spaces remain safe, welcoming and free from unlawful activities.
Dedicated 24/7 Tourist Helpline – 1364
Goa Tourism’s 24×7 Tourism Helpline 1364 serves as a single touchpoint for tourism-related queries within the state. Tourists are encouraged to use the toll-free helpline for tourism-related information and to report tourism-related concerns, crime or emergencies.
