Union Minister of State for Tourism Shripad Naik commented that the drug menace is the reason why crimes are taking place in the tourist areas in the coastal state of Goa. The Tourism Department of Goa has prohibited ten activities & directed police to take action against illegal activities, including touting, begging, and cooking food in open spaces and littering of areas in all tourist places.
Speaking to the media “Drugs are the main reason for the crimes happening in tourist areas of Goa. Drugs should be curbed. The government has put steps in to curb it and the central government will help,” said Naik. Appreciating the decision of the state government, Naik went on to say “Tourists should not be harassed. Crimes happening in the tourism area are because of drugs,’ he said. The police in Goa have also started taking action on the drug trade in the state by conducting raids.” said Shripad Naik
Under Section 13 of Goa Tourist Places Protection and Maintenance Act, 2001, a violator of the order shall be punishable with a fine of Rs 5,000, which may extend up to Rs 50,000 or shall be liable for action under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.