Panaji, Aug. 17 -- Congress leader Amit Palekar has accused government officials of allegedly targeting club and restaurant owners in Goa with nightly extortion, while claiming that illegal dance bars continue to operate under alleged political patronage.

Palekar warned Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte that the alleged unchecked activities could damage Goa's reputation as a leading tourism destination.

He alleged that legitimate hospitality businesses were being subjected to pressure and extortion while illegal establishments were allegedly being allowed to flourish. Palekar called for the authorities to take immediate action against such practices and ensure that the tourism sector operates within the law...