Calangute MLA slams excise inaction; demands strict action on liquor outlets flouting rules
MAPUSA
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Friday expressed strong concern over the growing menace of drunken driving and public drinking by tourists, blaming it on the unchecked operation of liquor outlets beyond permitted hours in the coastal belt.
Speaking at a press conference, Lobo said several retail and wholesale liquor shops in Calangute remain open till 2 or 3 am, despite rules mandating closure by 10 pm.
“Excise inspectors are not conducting checks. No outlet has been suspended. This is the ugly side of tourism, and it’s tarnishing Goa’s name,” he said.
Lobo alleged that many local owners have rented out liquor outlets to outsiders, leading to rampant violations. He said tourists buy alcohol late at night, drink on beaches, roadsides or under trees and litter the area.
“We don’t want such cheap and ugly tourism. Tourists who drink under a banyan tree or on the footpath are not welcome,” he stated.
The MLA said he would write to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant seeking the suspension of the Mapusa Excise Inspector for failing to act and urged the government to hold regular review meetings to curb such violations.
