Date:26/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/26/stories/2007122653661200.htm

National

Goa police file case against former Minister

Special Correspondent

Matanhy Saldanha had asked tourists to leave the State

He heads the anti-SEZ movement in the State
Security stepped up for the festival season

PANAJI: The Goa police on Tuesday filed a criminal complaint against the former Tourism Minister and leader of the Goa Movement Against Special Economic Zones (GMAS), Matanhy Saldanha, for warning tourists to leave Goa, as the group planned to intensify its agitation against SEZ projects.

Provocative statements

The city police said that Mr. Saldanha was charged under the Indian Penal Code for inciting people through provocative statements.

Confirming the police action, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ujjwal Mishra told The Hindu on Tuesday evening that the police would investigate the case and did not rule out arrest if the situation demanded.

Mr. Saldanha, who is leading the political parties and social and activist organisations under the banner of GMAS, had on Sunday warned the tourists to leave Goa immediately after the Christmas festivities as the GMAS proposed to intensify the agitation,“ which could turn ugly.”

CM’s assurance

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Monday had rebuked Mr. Saldanha for his “irresponsible statement” and assured the people that the government would take all steps for the safety and security of tourists and would not allow anybody to take law into their hands.

The State has already stepped up security across the State in view of the Christmas festivities and the New Year celebrations.

Considered to be the peak of the tourist season, the last week of December traditionally witnesses the maximum arrival of tourists in Goa.

Mr. Saldanha’s reaction to the registering of a case against him could not be obtained as he was not available.