CANACONA
The Agonda gram sabha on Sunday passed a resolution on not allowing non-locals from operating tourism-related businesses in the area. This comes after a man from Saleri-Khola was allegedly assaulted by Agonda locals for operating a dolphin trip business without a licence.
The locals accused the non-locals of attempting to takeover the tourism-related businesses, even condemning the protest by residents of Saleri on Saturday over the recent assault and blaming the fishing community of Agonda for it.
“We strongly condemn such behaviour of Khola Sarpanch and some of the people of Saleri (Khola),” said Agonda anch Nilesh Pagui.
Earlier, gram sabha members Sanju Pagi and Ramesh Pagi claimed that a majority of tourism-related businesses in Agonda are operated by residents of Saleri.
Earlier, grasabha members Sanju Anant Pagi and Ramesh Ashok Pagi informed, 80% of the tourism trade such as Tourist Taxis, etc in Agonda village, besides Fish-selling and other Fishing activities are carried out by Saleri residents of Khola village in Agonda village.
“As for water sports, authorities have formed boat associations for their respective areas and only members registered with these respective associations obtain necessary permits and licences to operate the business. But one boat operator from Saleri inspite of warnings, stations his boat on Agonda shore and illegally operates water sports in the village. This was objected to and even panchayat issued a warning letter to him which was ignored,” stated Sanju.
“Traditional fishermen of Agonda have worked hard to start water sports and other tourism-related trades, with all the hard work and sacrifices, now these outsiders are trying to capture our businesses,” informed panch Pagui.
