Goa CM Pramod Sawant responded to claims by some social media influencers who stated that the coastal state was “empty” this holiday season.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has firmly stated that “hotels are full,” in response to claims by some social media influencers suggesting that the coastal state, typically bustling with tourists during Christmas and New Year, was “empty” this holiday season.
Pramod Sawant claimed that a “false message” was being spread about Goa.
“All the hotels here are full. Some influencers keep claiming that tourists are avoiding Goa and heading to other destinations. They are misleading people by spreading false information about Goa,” he told news agency ANI.
The BJP leader invited the “influencers” to visit Goa’s coastal areas.
Sawant stated, “I would like to encourage them to come and see the coastal sites for themselves. Every road is crowded with vehicles, every beach is packed, and we’ve welcomed many international tourists. The roads are bustling with activity, and people are being greeted with warmth.”
He noted that December is a “crucial month” for the coastal state.
“I welcome people from all over the country. December is a significant month for Goa. As always, various festivals, from international events to Christmas and New Year’s Eve, are celebrated with great enthusiasm. November, December, and January are always filled with tourists,” Sawant remarked.
Goa Minister Slams “Influencers”
Meanwhile, Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte on Thursday criticized “paid influencers” for “defaming” the state.
“To claim that tourist numbers have dropped, and that visitors have gone to Thailand or elsewhere, is a completely different approach to marketing a competing destination,” Khaunte said at a press conference, adding that the government would “expose” the influencers behind these claims.
