CANACONA: The clandestine issuance of excise licenses and the smuggling of alcohol from Marle village through the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary have persisted for over three decades, with locals tracing its origins back to the Portuguese era. Even after Goa’s liberation, the first government issued excise licenses to alcohol producers, perpetuating the illicit trade.
Canacona Excise officials acknowledge the issuance of three to four licenses in Marle village but are yet to confirm if permits for transporting the inflammable substance (alcohol) through the sanctuary have been granted.
Excise Inspector Shamba Naik stated, “We shall summon the individuals named by Canacona Police and verify the facts. We are yet to uncover the entire syndicate.”
Local residents of Marle village, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration over the enduring smuggling trade, which they believe tarnishes the village’s reputation.
“These smugglers consider the trade their cultural right, as no action has been taken against them thus far. We do not want future generations to continue this illicit trade, which brings shame to our village,” remarked one villager. Another villager revealed that the smugglers are not even from Marle village but hail from neighboring Poinguinim village.
“Even if they are legal establishments, how do they abet smuggling, which is a concern of the neighbouring State and their economy. We demand that authorities keep vigil over such illicit activities and stop the illegal trade through our village,” another villager said.
Pavan Tubki, an activist from Canacona, commended the prompt action taken by Canacona SDPO, an IPS officer, and called for an end to the manufacturing of illicit liquor and smuggling activities. He urged concerned authorities to monitor establishments closely. Last week, Canacona Police seized alcohol worth Rs 10 lakh, which was handed over to the Excise Department. Both Cotigao and Poinguinim village panchayats praised the police’s efforts and urged them to maintain vigilance in the future.
