Panaji, Dec 31: The Goa government said it was monitoring the situation on the beaches in the wake of strike by lifeguards even as 361 lifeguards were arrested on Wednesday after they took out a protest march defying prohibitory orders.
Later, the 361 lifeguards were released after being produced in a court here.
The lifeguards, mainly demanding regularisation of services, went on an indefinite strike yesterday, prompting the state government to invoke Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against them.
The protesters, however, said they will continue with their agitation in support of their demands.
All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) leader Christopher Fonsenca said the agitators have put forth a legitimate demand which is being ignored by the company. The lifeguard services along Goa’s beaches are manned by Drishti Lifesaving Services Private Limited.
“We will continue to be on the streets till our demands are passed,” Fonseca said.
Meanwhile, the tourism department is monitoring the situation on the beaches considering the New Year rush as several lifeguards have joined the strike.
