PANAJI
Shack operators have lashed out against the sudden-stricter implementation of the 11 pm closure rule, calling it a knee-jerk reaction without addressing the real issues of crime and unruly tourists.
Being main tourism stakeholders, they argue that cracking down on shacks operating beyond the permissible timing alone won’t ensure safety. Instead, they urged the government to adopt clear and consistent regulations.
“The closure by 11 pm might act as a deterrent but only to a certain extent. There is no guarantee crimes only happen after that hour. We have seen incidents happen even during the day time,” President of the Traditional Shacks Owners Association Manuel Cardozo said speaking to The Goan.
“We understand the need for regulations, but there needs to be clarity and fairness as well.”
President of the Shack Owners Welfare Society Cruz Cardozo echoed similar sentiments, adding that curbing unruly tourist behaviour should also be taken on priority. “Authorities and police should focus on disciplining tourists. We can’t be blamed for the behaviour of visitors,” he said.
Cruz questioned that despite crackdowns, why are illegal hawkers, touts and beggars still thriving on the beaches creating a menace. “Why can’t there be a consistent police presence on the beach at night to ensure law and order,” he asked.
The State witnessed two incidents creating waves. Nitin Agarwal and his friends from Mumbai were allegedly attacked by workers and security guards – all hailing from Himachal Pradesh and Kerala – of Planet Goa Shack in Calangute. They were arrested. In the Marina Shack case, Andhra Pradesh tourist Bhola Ravi Teja was killed. The shack owner, his son and two workers from Nepal were arrested. The incidents allegedly occurred after 11 pm.
The shack owners further cited the conflicting regulation between shack operation hours and liquor licences wherein the Tourism Department mandates shacks to close by 11 pm but the Excise Department allows liquor to be served until 1 am or beyond – subject to licence fees. This discrepancy, according to operators, is causing both confusion and financial loss.
“If we’re forced to shut at 11 pm while paying for a liquor licence valid till 1 pm, it’s a pointless loss. Instead, deploy police along the beach belt to maintain security,” Cruz suggested.
The stakeholders are expected to request an extension of operating hours and assured to cooperate with the strict timing enforcement. Sources said that the officials from the two departments are expected to hold a meeting next week to resolve the timing mismatch and find a balanced approach.
