Goa is a top vacation spot attracting both domestic and international tourists. But Goa's state officials are apparently not happy with the quality of tourists visiting the state in recent times.
In comments that have since sparked strong reactions from public, Goa Town and Country Planning Minister Vijai Sardesai said north Indian tourists want to create a Haryana in Goa. "We are dependent on north Indians and this is what they do. They are not bothered about Goa. They will like to recreate a Haryana in Goa," Sardesai said. He also described majority of domestic tourists visiting Goa as "scum of the earth."
Saying Goa receives tourists almost six times the state's population, Sardesai said there's a lack of "top-end tourists. They are also the scum of the earth." He also said Goans are superior to the rest of India and called a majority of domestic tourists "irresponsible."
"If you compare Goans to the rest of India, we are very high in per capita income, social and political consciousness, health parameters, and many other parameters. So, we are much superior than the people who are coming in. Those people -- how will you control?" the Minister added.
The minister made these comments at the Goa Biz Fest.
Meanwhile, at a separate event, Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar expressed concern at the increasing number of girls consuming alcohol.
"I have begun to fear now, because even the girls have started drinking beer. The tolerance limit is being crossed," said Parrikar. "I am not talking about everyone. I am not talking about these people who are sitting here," he said addressing the State Youth Parliament, an event organised by the state Legislature Department here.
Zia Yusuf
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