MAPUSA
Calangute, a coastal village synonymous with Goa’s tourism, has been shaken by three violent incidents in the past few days, casting a shadow over the beginning of the tourism season.
Known for its vibrant beach life, the village is now at the centre of a growing concern over public safety, particularly as criminal activity spills into areas frequented by both locals and visitors.
The most shocking of the incidents was a brutal attack on two local youth by a group of bouncers from a popular nightclub.
Locals expressed outrage, questioning the role of bouncers in escalating violence rather than ensuring safety.
“It’s terrifying that the very people meant to keep the peace inside these clubs are the ones attacking us. This isn’t the Goa we grew up in,” said Anny Fernandes, a panchayat member of the ward.
In another troubling incident, two young Goan women were harassed with lewd remarks by a group of tourists after attending a Dandiya event early Sunday morning.
The incident highlights a growing fear that women are increasingly vulnerable to harassment in Goa’s most popular tourist areas.
The offensive behaviour, which included the derogatory “aati he kya?” slur, has sparked anger among locals, particularly in light of Goa’s reputation as a liberal and safe destination for women.
In the third incident, three veterinary doctors were physically assaulted by a group of locals following a verbal altercation.
All three incidents occurred either late night or early morning, contributing to a growing sense of unease in Calangute, especially as the tourism season gathers momentum.
Violence, harassment and disorder do not bode well for a State that relies so heavily on its image as a peaceful and welcoming destination.
“These incidents are a concern but as long as the authorities take action and the problem is nipped in the bud, it shouldn’t cast a shadow on the season ahead. There are bad eggs in every basket,” said Jack Sukhija President of Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG).
PROBLEM WITH
BOUNCERS
One recurring issue in the Calangute is the presence of nightclub bouncers, who have been linked to several violent altercations in recent years.
Bouncers, who are supposed to maintain order within the clubs, often find themselves involved in or instigating violence.
Their heavy-handed methods, combined with the rowdy behaviour of some tourists, have led to several such incidents in the past.
“The presence of bouncers, instead of making people feel safe, is actually creating fear. Many tourists, especially families and women, feel intimidated by them,” said Premanand Diukar, an active resident who takes up social issues in Calangute.
Some have called for stronger regulation or even restrictions on the use of bouncers in coastal clubs, fearing that the current situation is tarnishing Goa’s image.
WOMEN’S SAFETY
One of the most pressing concerns arising from these incidents is the safety of women in the State.
The harassment faced by the two Goan women outside the Dandiya event is emblematic of a larger issue – an increase in disrespectful and inappropriate behaviour towards women.
The perception that Goa is a place where “anything goes” has emboldened some to act with impunity.
“The way some tourists behave towards local women is disgusting. We need to change the perception that Goa is a place where women are easily available,” Fernandes said.
Locals are increasingly alarmed by the presence of pimps and touts near sleazy clubs, where women are objectified and offered as part of the “tourist experience.”
The government’s failure to clamp down on this seedy side of tourism has left many feeling helpless and concerned for their daughters, wives, and sisters.
WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE
As the tourism season unfolds, there is mounting pressure on local authorities and the police to address the growing concerns.
Stronger policing, especially during night time, is needed to ensure that both tourists and locals feel safe.
More importantly, there needs to be a cultural shift in how Goa markets itself – away from the idea of a no-holds-barred party destination and towards a place of respect, enjoyment, and safety for all.
“This isn’t just about these isolated incidents – it’s about the future of tourism in Goa. We can’t afford to have a season marred by violence and crime. It’s time for the authorities to step up,” said a local business owner requesting anonymity.
As Goa’s tourism season progresses, the focus must shift from merely attracting visitors to ensuring their safety, as well as the safety of locals, so that the State can preserve its reputation as a safe, vibrant destination.
