Goa Chief Minister Digamber Kamat on Saturday appealed to the citizens to unitedly fight against "attempts to defame the state."
In an apparent reference to the Russian girl rape case in which a politician, John Fernandes, is the accused, he said there are a few incidents about which he feels "ashamed."
"But we also feel that Goa is being defamed over such incidents and all Goans should unitedly fight back such attempts," Kamat said while addressing a parade organised to mark the 48th Goa Liberation Day.
The Chief Minister said a few isolated cases won't deter tourists from visiting Goa, a popular holiday destination. "Tourists have full faith in Goa and Goans."
Kamat also took guard of honour at Campal Parade Ground here. On this day in 1961, Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule after culmination of Indian Army's `Operation Vijay'.
"Terrorism remains a concern for the state," the Chief Minister said, adding a few groups were trying to divide the society on communal lines. "Don't fall for the lucrative promises made by these groups."
Kamat said his government had launched several welfare schemes for the people. He reiterated the resolve to fight Karnataka's plans to divert Mhadei River water.
{{/usCountry}}Kamat said his government had launched several welfare schemes for the people. He reiterated the resolve to fight Karnataka's plans to divert Mhadei River water.
{{/usCountry}}On the occasion, he presented citations to award winners in different categories for meritorious government service.