the goan I network
PANAJI
“His statement that Goa tourism department will weed out the menace of Lamanis, a nomadic tribe from neighbouring Karnataka, from Goa’s beaches is unwarranted and unbecoming of a responsible people’s representative. It is true there are illegal vendors on the beach and the system of licensing must be streamlined according to law,” the committee headed by Fr Savio Fernandes and Cyril Fernandes said. To point a finger, exclusively at the Lamani community, and blame them for all the ills along the coastal belt is like barking up the wrong tree, they added.
“There is crime galore on the beaches of Goa. These crimes are carried out by all kinds of people, including Goans,” they said.
Fr Fernandes said Azgaonkar’s comments are an affront to the dignity of the ‘Lamanis’ who have every right to seek employment anywhere in India. By such remarks, Azgaonkar has shown his xenophobic tendencies and racist leanings. “If Azgaonkar is serious about weeding out crime, he will have to take comprehensive steps to tackle illegal massage parlours, eradicate pimps and stop prostitution, halt availability of drugs, arrest child trafficking, CRZ violations by restaurants and bars, hotels etc,” he added.
