Tourist Vows “Will Probably Never Come Back to Goa” After Alleged Assault Near Madgaon Station
A tourist’s shocking experience in Goa has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage over safety concerns in the popular beach destination. The man, who was visiting Goa with his girlfriend, claimed he was physically assaulted and verbally abused by two locals near Madgaon railway station. The altercation, which stemmed from an alleged traffic dispute, has left him shaken, and he has vowed never to return to Goa.
A Nightmare Unfolds in Goa
In a detailed Reddit post titled “Got physically abused in Goa, will probably never come back”, the tourist recounted the terrifying incident. He had rented a car for the trip, hoping to avoid riding a scooter in the scorching heat. After dropping his girlfriend at Goa Airport, he was en route to Madgaon station to catch a train when the encounter took place.
While driving, he claimed he unknowingly “cut” two local men on a scooter. However, he emphasized that there was no physical contact between the vehicles. “No bump, no scratches, our vehicles didn’t touch, and frankly, I didn’t even cut him,” he wrote. Despite this, the two men took offense and decided to take matters into their own hands.
They allegedly followed him all the way to the railway station, blocked his car, and threatened to damage his vehicle. “One guy got off, picked up a stone, and threatened to break the windshield if I didn’t open the window,” he stated in his post.
The Assault: A Frightening Turn of Events
Fearing further escalation, the man decided to lower his window, but that’s when the situation took a violent turn. “The moment I opened it, he punched me straight up,” he revealed. As he tried to process what was happening, the physical and verbal assault continued.
His attackers hurled abuses at him, particularly targeting the fact that he was an outsider. “His other friend just stood there while both kept abusing me about being from outside,” he said, describing the verbal assault that accompanied the punches.
The timing of the attack made things even more stressful—he had just minutes left to return the rented car and catch his train. “I was about to miss my train. I still had to return the car and get to the station in 7-8 minutes, and these guys wouldn’t let me go.”
A Narrow Escape with Local Help
Amidst the chaos, a few bystanders intervened, allowing him to escape the situation. “Finally, some locals helped me leave, and I barely managed to return the car and get to my train,” he wrote. However, the traumatic experience has left a lasting impact on him.
“I hate Goa now because of this. It has scarred all the good times I had,” he expressed, adding that he had not even fully processed what had happened. While he intends to file a police complaint, he was unable to capture any footage of the attackers or their vehicle, making it difficult to take action.
Got physically abused in Goa, will probably never come back
byu/generic-_name inGoa
Social Media Reactions: Safety Concerns Rise
His post quickly gained traction, with many social media users expressing their concern over rising safety issues in Goa. Some shared their own unpleasant experiences, while others questioned if the state was losing its charm as a tourist-friendly destination.
One user wrote, “I have loved Goa since my college days and used to visit every two years. But from what I’ve been hearing, I don’t think I’ll visit anymore.”
Another commented, “Mob justice and vigilantism seem to be the new norm. This isn’t just about Goa; it’s happening all over the country.”
Many users also pointed out the growing issues with transportation and local hostility. “It has become way too stressful in Goa because of the lack of transport options. Local taxis charge a bomb,” said one person.
Some even claimed they had faced similar aggression during their trips. “I had a similar experience, though it didn’t turn violent because I’m heavily built and look menacing. But Goa has changed. This was my 9th visit and definitely my last,” a user shared.
Is Goa Losing Its Tourist Appeal?
Goa has long been one of India’s top travel destinations, known for its beaches, nightlife, and relaxed vibe. However, increasing reports of hostility, tourist harassment, and lack of proper law enforcement have raised concerns about whether Goa is still as welcoming as it once was.
While the man’s account remains unverified, and there has been no official confirmation of a police complaint, the viral post has undoubtedly reignited discussions on the safety of tourists in Goa. Will incidents like these discourage visitors and tarnish Goa’s reputation? Only time will tell.
