Goa Tourism Takes Strong Action Against Shack Policy Violation
Panaji, January 29, 2025 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has taken stringent action against a violation of the Goa State Shack Policy 2023-26, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and regulatory enforcement in the tourism sector.
Based on a report submitted by the Police Inspector of Mandrem Police Station on January 27, 2025, the department found that Shri. Manuel Espritosanto Fernandes, allottee of Shack No. 4 at Arambol Beach Stretch, had sublet the shack—a direct violation of Clause 20 of the policy.
In addition to this violation, the Goa Tourism Department has also ordered the demolition of the shack following the arrest of three of its employees in connection with an alleged murder. Amar Bandekar (37) was fatally stabbed on Sunday, allegedly by some employees of the shack owned by Manuel Espritosanto Fernandes.
As a result, the Tourism Department has imposed a penalty of ₹25,00,000, forfeited the security deposit, and cancelled the shack license. Fernandes has been ordered to demolish Beach Shack No. 4 within seven days, failing which the department will carry out the demolition at the cost and risk of the allottee, recovering expenses as arrears of land revenue.
Furthermore, Shri. Manuel Espritosanto Fernandes has been permanently blacklisted and barred from participating in any future shack allotment processes under the state’s Shack Policy.
The Goa Tourism Department has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing strict regulations to maintain law and order in the tourism sector. This action serves as a strong warning to all shack operators that policy violations and criminal activities will not be tolerated.
