Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jul 30: In a sharp move against the unchecked growth of illegal holiday rentals, Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte on Monday lashed out at the misuse of residential apartments as commercial homestays, warning that such practices are "undermining the formal hospitality industry" and disturbing the state's social fabric.

Speaking in the Goa Legislative Assembly, Khaunte highlighted a growing trend where apartments—largely purchased by individuals from Delhi and other states during the Covid-19 pandemic—are now being let out to tourists without necessary tourism registrations. These properties, he stated, were intended for residential use and not for short-term commercial leasing.

“These are not homestays, they are blatant misuse of residential housing,” the minister said, asserting that such illegal operations were not only hurting licensed hotels and guesthouses but also sparking unrest among local communities.

The issue was raised during Zero Hour by BJP legislator and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, who termed the proliferation of unregistered homestays as a "growing menace." Lobo cited that many of these apartments, especially those in gated communities, have been quietly transformed into short-term rentals listed on popular online platforms.

“The problem is not just economic, it’s social,” Lobo told the House. “In buildings with 50 flats, at least ten are rented to tourists. No one knows who is checking in or out. There’s loud music, drinking in shared spaces, and a complete disregard for residents who live there full-time.”

He further added that such rentals often attract “unruly” visitors, creating security concerns and putting pressure on building infrastructure not designed to accommodate transient populations.

Echoing the concerns, Minister Khaunte said the government will act firmly to curb these practices and bring unregistered homestays under regulation. “Goa’s tourism image is being diluted. We cannot allow anyone to commercialise residential zones in the name of tourism,” he said.

The tourism department has reportedly begun working on mechanisms to identify and penalize such unregistered establishments, with a strong focus on maintaining harmony between tourists and locals.

As Goa continues to battle the dual challenge of sustaining tourism while protecting local interests, the government’s message is clear: hospitality must operate within the law, or face consequences.