Goa Government announces penalty for drinking and eating in Public

Guwahati: Gone are those days when one would rush to Goa thinking of relaxing on its beaches, enjoying some refreshing drinks and have fun with friends and family while enjoying delicious dishes under the wide open blue sky! As per the latest order issued by the Goa cabinet on Thursday, a fine of Rs 2,000 will be imposed on people who drink alcohol or cook in public. Also, if one is found failing in obeying the regulations and unable to pay the penalty set by the government, he/she or they will be entitled to receive imprisonment for up to three months.

The penalty will be applicable in term of groups or gatherings of people as well who are seen drinking in public in Goa. Such a group will be considered as eligible to pay a fine of Rs 10,000. Speaking in regard of the new regulations, State Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar has confirmed that an amendment to Registration of Tourist Trade Act has been made to accommodate the penalty. The amendment is expected to be tabled during the Assembly session of Goa which is to start on January 29.

Ajgaonkar said, “We have brought this amendment for those who break bottles on the beach, (and) cook and drink alcohol in public places like beaches.”

He further added, “Nobody can drink alcohol on our beaches and tourist places anymore. Bottles cannot be carried there. Food also cannot be cooked in the open. All these offences will attract a fine of Rs 2000. If the fine is not paid, an offence can be registered. The offender can be arrested and imprisoned for three months.”

As Goa has been particularly popular for the free spirit lifestyle provided to its tourists and the freedom to eat and drink while relaxing and partying in its beaches, this very proposal has come like thunder on the tourists who have planned to visit the state.

It has also been strictly ordered that even if one is not caught red-handed while drinking on the spot, any photograph of the offenders can also be sent to the tourism department and it in return will impose the fine on the offenders.

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