MARGAO: Goa Forward has written to Dr Nasim Zaidi, chief election commissioner, New Delhi, opposing plans to hold elections in Goa in mid-January 2017, as the same would affect the tourism industry.
“We have learnt through the press statement given by Narayan Navti, joint chief electoral Officer, Goa, and extensively covered by the local media that the Assembly elections to the 40 constituencies of Goa are likely to be held in mid-January, 2017. The term of the Goa Assembly ends in mid-March, 2017,” said Goa Forward President Prabakhar Timble in the official letter.
Goa Forward pointed out that the tourist season in Goa commences in October, while December and January are the peak months for the tourism industry.
The Goa Forward also observed that besides this, there is heavy pressure on the administration and the law enforcement agencies during this period.
“Announcement of elections in November/December by the Election Commission of India and the consequent operation of the Election Code of Conduct would be detrimental to the genuine interests of the tourism industry which includes hotel & hospitality and the gamut of services under the category of entertainment, events, catering and local handicrafts,” says Timble in his letter.
“Further, this is the season of weddings which commences from Diwali and touches the peak in November/December.,” Timble’s letter adds as.
Timble has requested the chief election commissioner to reschedule the elections after Jan, 2017.
