PANAJI
Amid rising concerns over the sale of land to real estate lobby and major land sharks, the Centre for Responsible Tourism (CRT) has alleged that under the guise of development, the State is handing over public resources to powerful entities at the expense of local communities.
The CRT further criticized the use of stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to suppress dissent. “Those who question such practices are unjustly targeted and left languishing in jail without due process. Indigenous people and local communities are being displaced to make a place for the rich. It is a do-or-die situation to safeguard the heritage for future generations,” Fr Freddy Braganca, Executive Director of CRT, said.
Responding to a government call to reflect on the theme of ‘Tourism and Peace,’ the CRT acknowledged that tourism has the potential to foster peace and tranquillity but argued that these ideals should not be reduced to mere promotional slogans, especially when the ground reality tells a different story.
“There numerous uprisings across due to the promotion of corporatization of tourism spaces which is gaining prominence. We have witnessed so much of unrest in our State precisely for the reason of losing the identity due to change in regulations to favour the industrialists,” Fr Braganca alleged.
The CRT also endorsed a statement from Tourism Alert and Action Forum (TAAF), which emphasized that while tourism and peace are closely connected, they remain incomplete without justice.
He suggested that responsible travel practices, respectful dialogue with local communities and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives are essential and so also, collaboration with tourists, tourism operators, governments and local communities for an equitable tourism industry.
“By prioritizing justice, we create a more equitable tourism industry benefiting all. This requires going beyond rhetoric and taking tangible steps. TAAF encourages us to foster a tourism industry that truly promotes peace, understanding, and equality,” Fr Braganca said.
