PANAJI: The holiday state of Goa says it has banned foreigners from working in beach shack bars and restaurants after receiving several complaints of discrimination against domestic tourists.
The policy stops any foreigner from owning, running or even working in beach shacks serving food and drink, irrespective of whether they hold Indian employment visas.
“There will be regular checking of the shacks to ensure that it is not sub-let by the original licensee to a foreigner,” Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar told reporters in the state capital Panaji on Wednesday as he announced the new measure.
He said the government had received complaints of discrimination against Indians in shacks run by foreigners.
“We will not allow any discrimination and anyone forced to face it should complain to the government. Strict action would be taken,” he added.
Goa has been a haven for tourists for decades, but officials in the state appear to be cracking down on outsiders hoping to move there.
AFP
