PANJIM: Calangute BJP MLA Michael Lobo’s strong outburst on the extortion issue has sent a strong signal and message to the ruling party to take action in the matter.
Narrating the entire incident of two extortionists demanding money from the hoteliers/restaurateurs/shacks/club owners to play music beyond the permissible limit i.e. 10 pm, Lobo has said that these extortionists should be publicly roughed up with slippers if they approach them for alleged “protection money”.
While the Chief Minister has asked for a complaint, any go slow in taking action will cause embarrassment to the ruling party since their own MLA has made the extortion charges.
Lobo claimed that the extortionists, demanding for protection money, are Goans, but refused to divulge their names.
He also refrained from making statements about whether these extortionists enjoyed political patronage.
“I have discussed this matter with the Chief Minister. I had asked the restaurant owners to give a written complaint, which is very important. Most businessmen are scared to come forward to file complaints. I am also a businessman, but I am brave. I have explained to the Chief Minister that these things shouldn’t happen. I have requested him to tell the police that such incidents should not occur as it will send a wrong signal about the tourist State,” Lobo said.
“At least one of the stakeholders should file a written complaint. People are scared, we have to instil confidence in them and they should also muster courage. I am an elected representative from the coastal belt but I am concerned about the entire State. I will stand by the businessmen. Such people should be beaten up with slippers by the hotel owners,” he reiterated.
