30% shacks sublet to Dilliwalas, will take strict action: Khaunte

PANAJI: A day after prominent shack operators alleged harassment by tourism officials if bribes are not paid, tourism minister Rohan Khaunte said on Friday that about 30% of the beach shacks are sublet to “Dilliwalas”.
“We are with operators who conduct their business legally, but action will be taken against those who will sublet in the new season,” said Khaunte.
With regards to the allegations of John Lobo, secretary of the Shack Owners Welfare Society (SOWS), Khaunte said that the tourism director has been directed to file a police complaint to investigate the allegations made against his department. “We are not taking the allegations lightly,” said Khaunte.
For the season from October to May, the tourism department issues about 340 to 350 licences to set up shacks across beach stretches. Allottees are selected through a draw of lots, as mandated under the beach shack policy.
The beach shack policy for the next season is being readied, and the tourism minister said it will be prepared by taking input from shack operators.
“However, there will be a crackdown on anyone who gives his beach shack for lease,” said Khaunte.
With the Goa market facing increased competition, he said, they needed to put their house in order.
Khaunte said the shack policy in operation for the past four seasons, which some operators are claiming is wrong, was not prepared by him.
Despite the mandates of the shack policy, after discussion with the chief minister, allottees were permitted to put up a certain number of tables and chairs on the beach, he said.
“Still, there were violations, and my department acted. It is justifiable,” he said.