Goa, June 11 -- The number of Olive Ridley turtles nesting at Mahiri Beach - also known as Dream Beach - has dropped significantly this season, prompting concern and criticism from local conservationists. Members of the Anjuna Biodiversity Board allege that the sharp decline, from 20 turtles last year to just 12 this year, is a direct result of police inaction in the face of repeated violations of wildlife and noise regulations.

"The Anjuna Police ignored formal complaints from the Forest Department about fireworks and illegal trance parties on the beach," said Satyan Harmalkar, a member of the Biodiversity Board. "This blatant disregard for the law by those entrusted to enforce it is not just negligent - it's dangerous." Harmalkar point...