PANAJI
The Tourism Department has directed the cancellation of the registration of the Calangute hotel linked to the sexual assault of three minor girls on June 7.
Registered as a Category C hotel under the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1982, the premises were used by two accused from Karnataka and Porvorim to sexually assault three minors including two sisters.
“This action has been taken in the wake of a recent and deeply concerning incident involving child abuse and crimes against minor girls. Taking serious note of the failure of the establishment to uphold the standards of safety, accountability and legal compliance expected of registered tourism entities, the Project Manager of the Registration Facilitation Centre is asked to proceed with the cancellation of the hotel's registration with immediate effect,” Tourism Director Kedar Naik said.
He further stated that they are closely working with the police and relevant stakeholders to ensure that tourism operations across Goa uphold the highest standards of safety, integrity, and social responsibility.
“The safety and well-being of all tourists and residents, particularly minors, remains the foremost priority of the department. We are committed to ensuring that all tourism-related establishments operate responsibly and in full compliance with the law. Any violation, especially one that endangers the safety of women and children, will be dealt with firmly and without delay,” he added.
The North Goa police had written to the Tourism Department to cancel the hotel's licence and sealed it for probe.
