the goan I network
OLD GOA
Speaking to The Goan, an activist Jose Carmin Joao condemned the incident and stated that such types of elements should not get encouragement from any corner. “The police should constantly monitor the activities of all notorious character and habitual offenders in the village, which will help in avoiding these types of incidents,” Joao added.
He further stated that the government should also act against touts who are fleecing the tourists, thereby bringing a bad name to Goa. “The government should train more guides and abolish the tout system,” he said.
Another villager, Jerry Vaz said the image of Merces has been destroyed by a few notorious characters. “Strict action should be taken against the individuals involved and political leaders should not support them,” Vaz informed while adding that politicians instead should guide such individuals towards the right path.
Michael Dias too echoed similar feelings and stated that political interference in such matters should stop as it emboldens the anti-social elements. “Law should be allowed to take its own course,” Dias stated while adding that the incident has brought shame to the entire village.
Sympathising with the tourists, former Merces sarpanch Girish Uskaikar, too, condemned the incident and opined that it has brought a bad name to Goa, which is dependent on tourism. “Whenever skirmishes occur between locals and tourists, both the parties should amicably resolve the issue,” Uskaikar said.
He added that unemployment issue should also be tackled as unemployed youth often fall prey to the tactics of anti-social elements.
Meanwhile, three accused have been remanded to 5 days police custody by JMFC while fourth accused is absconding.
