As many remember, Goa’s freedom fighters stood firmly against Portuguese rule, while some Goans were indifferent and others had only a limited link with Portuguese culture and governance. When we look back and compare that time with today, the change is clear. Goa, once peaceful, homely, and modestly crowded, has become a busy tourist hub facing issues like over-commercialisation, a rise in different migrants, drink-and-drive accidents, drug abuse, theft, harassment, and increasing crimes including assaults and rape. The beaches and environment are also under heavy strain, troubling Goans deeply.
Older Goans recall a period when people did not even lock their homes. Today, houses are broken into during quiet hours, and residents are sometimes attacked inside their own homes. Law and order was stronger then; now, criminals act without fear, even throwing stones at police patrols and fleeing. Many Goans wonder if the state will regain its shine as a beautiful tourist destination instead of being seen mainly as a commercial spot or a gambling hub with casinos rising everywhere. While Goans know they need migrants for blue-collar work, the rapid influx and sale of land to outsiders has changed local demographics and culture, pushing aside the susegad, laid-back way of life.
