Controversy-gripped Goan hotel is infamous amongst locals

Speculation with regards the Goa state government passing an ordinance to amend a 114 year old Land Acquisition Act (1894) has garnered significant negative publicity for the Cidade de Goa hotel and caused unrest amongst Goa’s local population. Post the Supreme Court's (in January 2009) order to demolish illegal structures within the city; the state government has stepped up to save the hotelier's interests.

Earlier, the Cidade de Goa resort at Vainguinim Beach in Goa was asked to demolish a part of its premises facing the beach, in order to vacate the area for public access. While the Supreme Court demanded that the demolition be carried out by end April 2009, the hotel promoter warned employees about possible job cuts once the hotel is demolished. 600 employee jobs are at stake if the demolition is carried out.

The issue has also stirred unrest amongst Goa’s local populace, due to the state government's biased approach favouring the hotel. However, none of the hotel authorities have commented about their stand post the ordinance’s announcement. Local associations like the Federation of Small