The Great Goan Land Grab
by V. M. de Malar
I would like to reply to this article:
I am worried for the people of Goa/India that the wealth generated from
tourism will not be used to improve the "working man's" lot. I don't just
mean from the point of view of un-taxed profits filtering out of the
country, but also from the steep levels of corruption that seem to be
prevalent in yours and most governments of this planet.
There is a cap on any profits that an "outsider" may make from business in
your country, this individual is not allowed to take these profits out of
India. Perhaps this is an area that could be improved/reinforced upon in
some way. In any case if any money that is accrued remains in the hands of
the few to do with whatever they want, then there lays the root of your
problem. Most guests who stay in your country for any length of time have an
Indian bank account which is taxed, that is honest and shows a willingness
to contribute, there is very little else that a tourist can do except pay
his bills and try to be understanding of Goan customs.
The western tourist generally speaking wants to be pampered and indulge
themselves, most of them are just working class who have saved up all year
for a couple of weeks holiday, if they are prepared to pay for this then so
be-it. But will the poor and disadvantaged in your state get the benefit? I
doubt it.
Integration through education and play will help, there is the usual crop of
humanitarians, along with your average beer swilling short term rather
un-knowledgeable type of "outsider". Incidentally I am uncomfortable with
the term "outsider" as it leaves the impression of a homophobic attitude,
guest is preferable and a lot less insulting. In any case human beings are a
rather inquisitive lot so if the medium of education was used this would go
a long way to furthering the understanding of two very different cultures.
You could let it happen quite naturally, through courses at education
centres, where people of all race and creed would be able to exchange
thoughts and feelings (another opportunity to further increase the wealth of
your country). The Goan warmth and penchant for friendly discussion and
hospitality would soon shine through leading to many hands across the sea
joining in friendship and harmony.
The salaried people as VM Malar identifies in this article are a privileged
minority just like any tourist in your country.
As long as greed and avarice exists so will this problem, ignorance is a
human ailment, spread the wealth, or pay the price in the future. And please
stop blaming the tourist for all your problems.
Dev Borum Korum
John Chandler
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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