Goa has always been known as a place with a vibrant tourism industry and for being a hospitable state. Part and parcel of such an industry is the local entertainment. The recent shocking attack on Ashwin Alvares was not only an affront to this entertainment professional community but also an attack on the image of Goa. We are used to hearing about such incidents taking place in the northern belt of India but lately, we hear of such violent incidents occurring in Goa almost every month. Whatever the narrative is behind these incidents, it has only shown that there is no fear for the law, no second thought before assaulting either tourist or in this case, a fellow local. Karaoke nights have been the trend recently, with many restaurants frequented by local families. Imagine if this had to happen in front of children. Here, a tourist helped the victim. Imagine the kind of message it has sent across. Goans could never imagine such kind of things taking place. Colva is a popular tourist spot with a large population. Yet , there was no fear on the part of the accused and the nature of the assault could have been worse. Strict action must be taken otherwise, a bad precedent will be set. If this case is ignored, it will only will only serve to embolden these ‘Goonda' elements.
Clinton Rodrigues, Margao
Clinton Rodrigues, Margao
