Goa considering Playboy's proposal to set up club

Goa Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar told the state legislative assembly on Monday that the government is considering Playboy's proposal to set up a club at Candolim beach, while responding to a question by Bharatiya Janata Party legislator Michael Lobo on the floor of the House.

Lobo had asked whether permission has been granted to Playboy to operate a shack at Candolim beach. Parulekar replied that the proposal is under consideration.

However, the tourism minister said that the government will not encourage any kind of tourism that promotes 'vulgarity'.

The minister's statement contradicts the announcement made by Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, who had publicly assured that Playboy would not be allowed in the state, as it might promote 'vulgarity'.

The Indian franchisee of the United States-based group had announced its plans in November last year to set up a club in Goa.

Playboy's property at Candolim beach has been planned as the first among 100-odd properties the group intends to open in India during the next ten years.