Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress alleged that illegal spas, massage parlours and dance bars are operating unchecked in parts of North Goa, posing a serious threat to women’s safety and tarnishing the state’s image.
Addressing a press conference, Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress President Dr. Pratiksha Khalap expressed concern over the rising number of crimes against women and referred to a recent rape case involving a woman who had reportedly come to Goa to work at a spa.
Claiming that several spas in Calangute and Panaji were functioning illegally, Khalap questioned how such establishments were operating despite requiring mandatory health and labour licences. She also alleged that illegal activities continued despite previous court directions and questioned whether influential persons were protecting such businesses.
Mahila Congress General Secretary and GPCC spokesperson Advocate Lavinia D’Costa said Goa’s reputation as a safe destination for women had deteriorated over the years. She cited recent reports of sexual offences involving minors, senior citizens and women, and alleged that illegal activities linked to spas had increased in North Goa.
D’Costa also referred to past police records, claiming that multiple cases related to illegal spa activities had been registered in Calangute between 2013 and 2018.
GPCC spokesperson Vivek D’Silva alleged that several spas, massage parlours and dance bars in Calangute were operating round the clock. He questioned the licensing and regulatory mechanisms permitting 24×7 operations and alleged that touts continued to target tourists despite enforcement measures.
D’Silva further claimed that many of these establishments were operated by non-locals and urged authorities to investigate their functioning, financial transactions and licensing. He also alleged that law and order in Calangute had deteriorated and called for a thorough probe into those allegedly protecting such businesses.
The Mahila Congress demanded strict action against illegal spas, dance bars and touts, while urging the government and law enforcement agencies to strengthen measures to ensure the safety of women and uphold the rule of law.
