Citizens’ group ‘Ponnjekars Against Casinos’ has announced a public awareness meeting titled “Casinos and the Way Forward,” scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, at the Institute Menezes Braganza in Panjim.
The organisers have called on residents to “Act Now,” signalling a renewed campaign against the continued operation and expansion of casinos in the State, particularly in and around the capital city. According to members of the group, the meeting aims to raise public awareness about what they describe as the growing social, economic and cultural impact of casino activities in Goa.
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Panjim has remained at the centre of a long-standing debate over offshore and onshore casinos, with several civil society organisations repeatedly voicing concerns. Issues highlighted over the years include increasing urban congestion, traffic bottlenecks, pressure on civic infrastructure, and what activists term the gradual erosion of Goa’s cultural ethos and identity.
The upcoming session is expected to deliberate on these concerns and explore possible courses of action. Organisers said the discussion will focus on charting a collective strategy, strengthening citizen participation, and examining potential policy-level interventions.
Members of the public, activists and concerned citizens are expected to attend the meeting to share their views and contribute to what the group describes as a crucial dialogue on the future direction of Goa’s development.
Sabina Martins later revealed that they have also sought support from the ‘Enough is Enough’ movement, in addition to reaching out to other civil society organisations. Meanwhile, Digambar Kamat, Minister for Captain of Ports, has granted the group an appointment on Monday.
