Goa Police Crack Down on Unauthorized Photography and Harassment of Tourists
In a decisive move to safeguard the privacy and safety of visitors, Goa police have initiated a stringent campaign targeting individuals who click photographs or selfies of tourists without obtaining their consent. This action comes amid rising concerns over harassment, particularly of foreign women, on the state's popular beaches.
Recent Detentions Under New Legal Provisions
On Friday, police detained two male tourists from Tamil Nadu at Baga beach in North Goa for allegedly taking photographs of other tourists without permission and engaging in harassing behavior. The duo was held under Section 170 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which grants police the authority to make arrests without a warrant in such cases.
This incident follows another case where Alisto Lobo was booked on Thursday for recording a video of a foreign tourist while she was swimming at Calangute beach. Without her consent, Lobo circulated the video on social media, leading to charges under Sections 79 (outraging a woman's modesty) and 356(2) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police stated that this act not only insulted the woman's dignity but also tarnished Goa's tourism reputation.
Increased Patrolling and Preventive Measures
In response to a series of similar incidents, Goa police have ramped up patrolling efforts, especially along the coastal belt in North Goa. A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, emphasized the severity of the situation: "We have observed disturbing clips on social media showing tourists coercing foreign women for selfies. Strict action will be taken against anyone violating privacy, with potential detention for up to 24 hours under preventive arrest laws. Such behavior damages the image of our tourist-friendly state."
Earlier this week, two tourists from Odisha were also detained for harassing a Russian national on a beach, highlighting the ongoing challenges.
Background of Incidents and Tourism Department's Response
The current drive builds on past events that raised alarms about beach safety. In November 2025, a viral video depicted a group of men harassing and groping two foreign women at Arambol beach while taking photos, leading to an FIR and arrests. Another case in October involved a 19-year-old student who reported harassment at a North Goa beach, including inappropriate remarks about her ethnicity and offensive questions. Police arrested a Rajasthan native in that instance.
Following these incidents, the tourism department urged police to enhance beach patrolling during the tourist season, reiterating that tourist safety and security are paramount. The intensified measures aim to prevent further occurrences and maintain Goa's appeal as a secure destination.
Legal Framework and Broader Implications
The use of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita underscores a shift towards stricter enforcement against privacy violations and harassment. These laws empower authorities to act swiftly, reflecting a broader commitment to upholding law and order in public spaces.
As the tourist season progresses, Goa police remain vigilant, with the campaign serving as a warning to potential offenders. The initiative not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also works to preserve the state's reputation as a welcoming and respectful tourist hub.
