THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira has come down heavily on the excise department and local authorities for allegedly failing to act against liquor outlets and bars operating illegally in the coastal belt, while taking prompt action against Goan businessmen.
Speaking to the media, Sequeira questioned why liquor outlets and bars around Tito’s Lane and areas near tourist hostels were allegedly operating from as early as 7 am without effective enforcement action.
“It is very sad and painful that no action is being taken against offenders,” Sequeira said, alleging that authorities were selectively targeting Goan businessmen while turning a blind eye to violations by non-Goan operators.
He urged Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who also holds the Excise portfolio, to intervene and ensure that the law is enforced uniformly, irrespective of the identity of the business operators.
Sequeira also raised concerns over garbage accumulation on Calangute’s beaches and in residential wards, claiming that panchayat members had been forced to undertake clean-up drives due to inadequate action by the concerned authorities.
He called for stricter enforcement against alleged illegal liquor operations and improved sanitation management in the coastal village.
