Goa concerned over foreign violating land buying rules

Panaji, July 24 (UNI) Expressing concern over foreigners buying land in violation of regulations, Goa Chief Minister Pratapsinh Rane told the State Legislative Assembly today that it could be prevented if the Centre issues short-term visas for three months to foreigners, instead of six months.

He told the House during question hour that cases of foreigners overstaying in the tourist State had also come to his notice and cited the example of a Pakistani who married a local girl.

This involved a human problem and if the Opposition desires his deportation, he would be sent back to Pakistan, Mr Rane said.

He said he would take immediate action if any other cases of overstaying are brought to his notice.

Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar said foreigners buying land extending beyond one lakh square metres in Goa has become a big racket.

All the cases need verification and the concerned registering authorities should be directed to inform the Government in all such cases, where the land deal is big.

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