Tourism Dept directs hoteliers to ensure child, women safety

PANAJI

The Goa Tourism Department has directed all hoteliers, guest house owners, and homestay operators across the State to take immediate and proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable children and ensure a safe, respectful working environment for women within their establishments.  

The directive comes amid concerns over rising incidents of child exploitation and workplace harassment against women in the hospitality sector, with the department stating that strict compliance with legal provisions is necessary.  

“Goa is committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment not just for visitors, but also for those working within the tourism sector. All stakeholders are urged to comply strictly with the provisions of law and implement all required safeguards for the protection of children and women. This is a collective responsibility and non-negotiable,” said Tourism Director Kedar Naik.  

The department reminded hotel and lodging establishment owners of Section 8(10) of the Goa Children’s Act, 2003, which mandates them to protect children from any form of abuse or exploitation on their premises, including adjoining areas like beaches and parks. Hotels must prohibit children from entering rooms unless registered with family or blood relatives and must restrict access to unfiltered internet services and objectionable content.  

It warned that owners or managers will be held accountable for violations, which can attract imprisonment of up to three years and/or a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.  

Further, the department reminded employers in the hospitality sector of their obligations under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, which requires the formation of an Internal Complaints Committee to handle complaints, conduct staff training on workplace conduct, and submit an annual report to the Local Committee detailing complaints received and action taken.