PANAJI: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has directed the authorities to take action against residential flats at Saldanha Kieran Park, Calangute, allegedly being used for short-term tourist accommodation.
The Commission was hearing a complaint filed on behalf of residents, who alleged that several flats in the 156-unit housing complex were being rented out to tourists on a daily basis.
According to the complaint filed by Savita Yadav, around 46 flats were allegedly being used for short-term rentals, with some units reportedly accommodating more than 10 visitors at a time.
Residents raised concerns over security, disturbance and the alleged commercial use of residential premises. They had approached the Calangute Panchayat, police and other authorities seeking action.
The Calangute Panchayat had earlier directed the welfare association to stop daily rentals within seven days, citing provisions of the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, 1994.
During the proceedings, the Director of Tourism informed the Commission that only eight units in the complex were registered with the department as guest houses or hotels. The department further stated that any future registration or renewal would require a no-objection certificate from more than half of the residents or the housing society.
The GHRC observed that alleged commercial activity in residential premises, coupled with administrative inaction, could affect the residents’ rights to life, liberty, equality and dignity.
The Commission has recommended that the Director of Tourism take steps within 30 days to seal flats found operating for commercial purposes. It also recommended that electricity connections of units registered as tourist accommodation be treated as commercial connections instead of domestic connections.
The Calangute Panchayat has been directed to strictly implement the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, while the police have been asked to respond to complaints raised by residents.
The concerned authorities have been directed to inform the GHRC about the action taken or proposed by November 6.
