Attempted rape of Russian girl in Goa

When I say "Goa" what comes to your mind?
Probably Sun, sand, beaches, Churches, Temples and yes, nude tourists. Of late, you'd probably add rape.

I am a Goan and so was deeply hurt and concerned when this news broke out on TV yesterday (27th Jan 10). As usually, the news presenters made hay while the news was hot and highlighted the irrelevant totally skipping the real issue. Great damage has been caused to the fair name of this beautiful state (and India), so I thought I should present a few facts for you to judge and suggest remedies.

 Fact I: The foreign tourist’s especially the Russians roam about in Goa wearing next to nothing. They do not care about the sensibilities of the Indians. I ask you, why is it that in nine out of ten incidents, it is the Russians who are involved?

Fact II: Most of the underworld activity in Goa is now controlled by the Russian Mafia. They own vast properties, run hotels, and are involved in all sorts of other activities legal and illegal.

Fact III: The Goa police wanted to install video cameras on all major beaches and also introduce the police watch tower. Both proposals were shot down by the tourism ministry (controlled by the powerful tourist lobby). They
opposed it on the grounds that such activities would be an invasion of the privacy of the tourist.

Fact IV: The locals are used to seeing near naked tourists in the market places and on the beaches and so do not react. Whereas the Indian tourists come in droves from other parts of our country to primarily gawk at the nude tourist and take photos of them (if possible, with them).

Fact V: Tourism is the largest revenue earner for Goa and over 40% of the population is directly or indirectly dependent on the tourist trade. Stop nudism and it will kill a very large part of the foreign and domestic tourist foot-falls. But clearly, nudism has had a adverse side effect on Indians who are simply not used to seeing scantily clad white skinned people.

Fact VI: There is a new phenomena in Goa – young Indians especially from the IT sector, coming to Goa for nude parties (usually also involves drugs). The ladies in these groups also work in the IT sector and when in Goa, wear next to nothing when frolicking on the beach. Again, this attracts other Indian tourists creating a vicious cycle.

I seek your support in saving Goa (and India). Join this group and write your ideas on what can be done to stop this.

---17th Feb 10: New update: Thanks to your suggestions, watch towers have been set up---

Due to the nature of our business, I am in the fortunate position of knowing a large number of local politicians and business people. I have already met several politicians including the new lady Directory General, police in Goa and am happy to inform you that watch towers have been set up and our beaches are being monitered (till midnight each day). I don't know to what extent (if any) I influenced this decission but at least I tried taking your voice to the local authorities. Perhaps there is hope for Goa and for India. Come to Goa people, it's a beautiful place.