MAPUSA
Expressing concern over negative portrayals of Goa as a tourist destination on social media, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Friday urged the State’s Tourism Department to take strong action against individuals or influencers attempting to defame the State.
Lobo suggested that the department lodge police complaints to address what he described as a concerted attempt to harm Goa’s reputation.
While acknowledging that Goa faces certain challenges, Lobo stated that he and other local MLAs regularly bring these issues to the attention of relevant authorities and the government.
“Some people who are trying to defame our State should be dealt with firmly,” he asserted, adding that such individuals “have no right to defame our State.”
Lobo highlighted Goa’s popularity as a tourist destination, widely appreciated by both Indian and international visitors. “Tourists love our culture and are overwhelmed by our hospitality,” he said.
He pointed to individuals whom he claims are targeting the State with negative comments and unsavoury incidents that create an inaccurate image of Goa.
The MLA noted a trend of heightened criticism on social media at the beginning of each tourist season, particularly over the past three to four years. “This trend happens mostly at the start of the tourist season,” Lobo observed, describing it as damaging to the State’s image and hospitality-driven economy.
Lobo also rejected comparisons of Goa to other Southeast Asian destinations, asserting that Goa offers a unique blend of culture, festivals, and scenic beaches.
While he admitted that some areas in Goa face issues, he stressed that the government is committed to addressing these challenges.
“All tourist destinations have some problems,” Lobo added, “But it is not right to defame the destination with unwanted comments.”
The MLA’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the potential impact of negative social media on Goa’s tourism sector as it enters the peak season.
Complaint against lawyer over tweet on State tourism
PANAJI: Facing immense backlash from social media users across sectors over fluctuating foreign arrivals, the Department of Tourism has lodged a complaint against a lawyer, alleging he used his X handle to present wrong facts about Goa.
In the complaint with Cyber Crime police station, Deputy Director of Tourism Rajesh Kale has alleged that false representation by the Delhi-based lawyer could severely dent Goa’s image as safe and welcoming destination.
“Goa has long been recognised as a prominent tourism destination for both domestic and international visitors. The propagation of such false statements not only jeopardizes the reputation of our state but also poses serious threat to public tranquility,” reads the complaint.
The official further suspected that the tweet could have an hidden agenda to undermine Goa’s image.
“His (lawyer) false assumptions regarding future tourist footfalls in Goa further exacerbate the situation. The statements appear to have the intent to cause public unrest and may induce individuals to commit offenses against the State or against public tranquility. It is evident that these actions constitute a breach of public peace and could severely damage Goa’s image as a safe and welcoming destination for tourists,” he added.
