Tourism takes a beating
Goa, which is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and lively culture, has been a popular destination for domestic and international travelers. Recently, however, some incidents have caused concern for visitor safety, leading authorities and stakeholders to reconsider security measures to ensure everyone’s safety. In recent months, Goa has unfortunately experienced a rise in violent incidents affecting tourists. There have been reports of tourists being assaulted by shack staff, resulting in serious injuries and, sadly, even fatalities. For instance, a tourist from Hyderabad lost his life in a violent attack by shack staff in Calangute on New Year’s Eve. These incidents are damaging Goa’s reputation as a secure destination for visitors. The increase in drug-related activities has unfortunately heightened safety concerns. Some beach establishments have been identified as locations where narcotics are distributed, resulting in overdoses and attracting criminal activity. This endangers the safety of tourists and unfortunately harms Goa’s reputation. Acknowledging the potential impact on tourism, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant noted a correlation between rising crime rates and a decline in tourist visits. He stressed the importance of taking strong measures to reduce crime and reassure tourists, adding, “For your safety, please avoid visiting secluded beaches late at night. We politely suggest that you be cautious when interacting with strangers and respectfully decline any unwanted advances or invitations. Please stay informed about potential safety issues by regularly checking travel advisories and local news.”
Meenal Mainkar, Sankhali
Benevolent tycoon
Steve Wozniak, the co-founder of Apple, has always maintained a unique stance on wealth. Unlike many tech giants who chase financial success, Wozniak has openly expressed his dislike for excessive money, believing it can corrupt personal values. In a 2017 interview, he shared that he intentionally distanced himself from wealth to maintain his integrity and principles. When Apple went public in 1980, Wozniak demonstrated his generosity by giving away $10 million worth of Apple stock to early employees who had contributed to the company’s success. He felt they deserved to benefit from Apple’s growth, even if they weren’t initially allocated shares. His decision highlighted his belief in fairness and loyalty over financial gain. Despite being one of the key minds behind Apple’s early innovations, Wozniak never sought to amass extreme wealth like his co-founder, Steve Jobs. Instead, he prioritized engineering, education, and philanthropy. His actions continue to inspire entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts worldwide, proving that success isn’t solely measured by money.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
Flawed judgment
A ruling by the Allahabad High Court that trivializes the charges against two men who were accused of sexually assaulting an eleven-year-old girl is extremely distressing. According to the Court, grabbing a minor’s breasts, breaking the string of her pyjama, and trying to drag her beneath a culvert do not constitute an attempt to rape. The Court drew a distinction between preparation for rape and an actual attempt to rape. The Court’s stance on attempted rape sends the wrong message. It does not ensure justice for victims of attempted rape. In fact, any kind of sexual assault that stops short of penetration must be considered as outraging the modesty of a girl. At a time when sexual crimes against women are on the rise, courts must treat them with the seriousness they deserve. A verdict must not trivialize the gravity of a crime. Also, the ruling does not conform with the laws pertaining to the POCSO Act. Courts must be committed to fighting child sexual abuse. Their verdicts must not dilute the gravity of crimes. Courts must be sensitive to the trauma experienced by survivors of sexual violence. When courts fail, people tend to commit crimes with impunity. The Supreme Court needs to review this case.
Venu G S, Kollam
IPL nurturing talent
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for showcasing domestic cricket talent in a big way. It has been a stepping stone for many young Indian cricketers hoping to make it big. From the initial leagues to the upcoming 18th edition, it has transformed into a tournament with a keen eye for talent and skill. Along the way, the league has shed its early teething problems. Despite a few inherent flaws, the IPL has groomed and encouraged players. The presence of senior Indian and foreign cricketers alongside, the freedom to play their natural game, and a significant financial cushion have ensured that young talents like Riyan Parag, Sai Sudharsan, and Rinku Singh have come to the forefront, along with many others. Fearless and committed, sincere and ambitious, the young guns in the IPL over the years have paid little respect for reputations. Their focus is more on the ball; bowlers are secondary. The confidence placed by franchises in some players despite their lackluster form has ensured that they repay the trust placed in them.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
