'Better security of tourists should be priority of Goa govt'

In the aftermath of the alleged rape of a nine-year Russian girl in Goa recently, the Centre today said the state government should take steps to improve security of tourists on a priority basis.

In the aftermath of the alleged rape of a nine-year Russian girl in Goa recently, the Centre today said the state government should take steps to improve security of tourists on a priority basis.

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"Goa government should, on priority basis, take some steps to prevent such incidents," Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni told reporters here.

She said in the past the Goa police did arrest some persons involved in such crimes.

"As tourism minister earlier I had suggested to all states to set up a body comprising retired army and police personnel who could man tourist spots for providing security to tourists. However, it could not materialise," she lamented.

The minister said the incident was "shameful... I am also a mother and therefore can fully understand how her parents must be feeling. When I was the tourism minister I had asked the Goa tourism minister to implement steps for improving security of tourists. Some steps were taken but those were not enough".

"I feel that all CMs should think that if tourism has to be improved then it is their duty to provide security to tourists. A wider vision is needed on this so that tourists feel secure," she added.