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PANJIM: Goa Public Gambling (Prevention) Amendment Bill, that restricts the entry of locals into casinos and proposes the creation of a regulatory gaming commission would be notified during the monsoon season, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Wednesday.
Parrikar also vowed to eliminate the off shore casinos from the state’s water front before he completes his current tenure, in next four years.
Addressing a press conference, Parrikar said that since the regulation of casino operation were complicated and a serious issue, a thorough study has to be made before notifying the Bill. “The file has been pending before me for last three months,” he said declaring that he would notify and set up a gaming commission during monsoon season.
According to the bill, which was introduced during the monsoon session of the assembly, last year, the gaming commission would oversee the operations of casinos in Goa and ensure all conditions are complied with. The gaming commissioner has been given powers to impose fines and initiate prosecution in case of non-compliance of any rules.
The bill also allows entry to casinos only for non-locals above 21 years who have obtained tourist permits from the Gaming Commissioner.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister said that government will not renew the licences of the off-shore casinos after a certain cut-off date which would be decided by the government.
“By the time I complete four years in the chair, there will be no casino boats in the water of Goa,” Parrikar said, adding that “he might require one more year to completely get them out if there are any licencing obligations.”
Parrikar stated that there is no need to doubt the intention of the government to remove off shore casinos from the river.
“We have not entertained any new application. Also one of the casino which had applied to transfer its licence to another management was denied the permission. This is enough to indicate that we have no intention to encourage off shore casinos,” Parrikar said.
