A Socio-Legal Exploration of Accessible Tourism for People with Locomotor Disabilities in the State of Goa

This study highlights the crucial importance of inclusive tourism by examining accessibility challenges faced by individuals with locomotor disabilities at tourist destinations in Goa, India, in light of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the Indian Constitution. It addresses the enforcement of accessibility standards and their socio-economic implications for inclusive tourism. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates legal analysis with empirical data collected through surveys (n=43) and field visits by the author, who has a locomotor disability, to prominent sites, including beaches, forts, churches, and temples. Survey findings indicate that 69.8 per cent of respondents encounter physical barriers, with 79.1 per cent reporting inadequate ramps, highlighting significant accessibility deficiencies.

Unlike existing literature, which often overlooks firsthand disability perspectives, this paper uniquely combines lived experiences with socio-legal analysis to advocate for robust policy reforms. It proposes infrastructure improvements, such as ramps and accessible pathways, alongside awareness campaigns and stringent enforcement of legal mandates, aligning with constitutional obligations and the UNCRPD. These measures aim to uphold human rights, ensure dignity, and enhance Goa’s tourism potential by fostering equitable access and social inclusion. By driving economic and social benefits, the study positions Goa as a potential global model for inclusive tourism, promoting an equitable and empathetic society.