PANAJI: Congress leader and advocate Amit Palekar has alleged that club owners and beachside restaurant operators in Goa are facing extortion and harassment, saying the situation is putting additional pressure on businesses already struggling to survive.
Palekar questioned who was allegedly facilitating the practice and asked Chief Minister Pramod Sawant whether he was aware of the situation and prepared to act against it.
Representing restaurant and shack owners as a lawyer, Palekar urged the government to intervene and said legitimate businesses should be allowed to operate without intimidation.
He also alleged that while licensed clubs and restaurants face difficulties, some dance bars continue to operate and allegedly earn substantial profits with the backing of individuals linked to the BJP.
Palekar appealed to Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte to take note of the allegations and initiate action, warning that continued harassment of businesses could negatively impact Goa’s tourism industry.
He called for greater government oversight and protection for legitimate tourism-related businesses, including restaurants, clubs and shacks.
