The High Court of Bombay at Goa adjudicated a dispute involving Smt. Socorina Joanita Pereira and others against the State of Goa and various respondents over the operation zones for parasailing boats. The petitioners challenged the orders relocating their parasailing operations from Majorda beach to Utorda and Betalbatim beaches. They sought to quash these orders and reinstate their original zones, citing violations of the Water Sports Policy 2020, which advocates a queue system for fair operation. The respondents opposed this, arguing that the petition is barred by the principle of res judicata due to a previous related petition. The court examined the applicability of res judicata and the merits of the policy's implementation.

Background

• Petitioners’ history of operating parasailing boats at Majorda beach.
• Previous changes in operational zones by the Captain of Ports without hearings.
• Disputes with other water sports operators leading to police complaints.

Legal Arguments

• Petitioners: The change in zones violates the Water Sports Policy 2020 and lacks valid reasoning. The petitioners also argue the policy was not uniformly applied.
• Respondents: The petition is barred by res judicata, and the previous petition was withdrawn based on the understanding of a common queue system.

The Water Sports Policy 2020

• Overview of the policy aimed at regulating water sports in Goa.
• Key features include registration, safety standards, and the queue system to ensure fair operation without monopolies.

Court’s Analysis

• Examination of the applicability of res judicata.
• Review of the Water Sports Policy and its intended equitable implementation.

Conclusion

• The judgment and directives regarding the operational zones and adherence to the Water Sports Policy.