Panaji: BJP MLA Michael Lobo raised concerns on Tuesday regarding alleged harassment of tourists by traffic police through the imposition of fines, stating that this practice needs to be stopped to avoid sending the wrong message from the state.
During the first day of the monsoon assembly session, Lobo expressed his views on the matter. He criticized the traffic police, noting that they stop everyone, including those wearing helmets, and demand documents which are easily accessible on mobile phones. Lobo claimed that tourists visiting the state for around four days have complained about being stopped and harassed at multiple locations while traveling from North to South Goa.
Lobo emphasized that it is crucial for the police to refrain from harassing tourists as it could create a negative perception. He highlighted that imposing fines on tourists should not be seen as a means of revenue generation and suggested that alternative solutions should be explored.
This is not the first time such allegations have been made by BJP MLAs. Earlier, Goa Revenue Minister Atanasio Monserrate criticized traffic police for allegedly harassing tourists by issuing fines instead of effectively addressing traffic issues in the coastal state. Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has also acknowledged the routine harassment of tourists by traffic police officials and expressed a commitment to making Goa more welcoming and hospitable to visitors.
