The Goa government has ordered the closure of 23 beach shacks for allegedly sub-letting their licenses to individuals from outside the state. This action follows recent incidents of violence linked to the illegal transfer of shacks, prompting a crackdown by the state tourism department.
Government Crackdown on Subletting
According to the tourism department, a total of 110 show-cause notices were issued following an inspection drive to investigate allegations of illegal subletting. Of these, 54 cases have been resolved, with 23 shacks ordered to shut down, while 31 notices were dismissed due to lack of violations.
“The department, after taking cognizance of reports of illegal subletting, conducted thorough inspections across beach shacks. Based on the findings, we have taken strict action against violators,” a government statement said.
The state of Goa allocates 364 beach shacks annually, primarily to unemployed Goan residents. However, during inspections, officials discovered that payments through POS and UPI systems were being processed under names unrelated to the original allottees.
License Termination and Penalties
The government has terminated the licenses of the affected shack operators, ordering the immediate cessation of all business activities under the Goa State Shack Policy 2023-2026. Additionally, security deposits submitted to the Government Treasury have been forfeited, and the shack operators have been given 15 days to vacate the premises.
Rising Violence at Beach Shacks
The crackdown comes in the wake of several violent incidents involving beach shacks in Goa. In October 2023, three veterinary doctors were allegedly assaulted by shack staff over a minor issue. In December, a tourist from Andhra Pradesh was killed, and his friends were injured following a dispute with a shack owner over a food order. Similarly, in January, a local businessman was killed by shack workers after an altercation over beach deckbed placement.
Government’s Stand
The Goa government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that beach shack operations remain lawful and free from violence. “We are taking stringent measures to curb illegal activities and ensure that the state’s tourism sector remains safe and well-regulated,” a tourism department spokesperson stated.
With the state cracking down on violations, authorities warn that further inspections and actions may follow against other shack operators found violating the rules.
Sources By Agencies