Movement alleges continued operation of casino vessels violates legislative intent, environmental safeguards and provisions of the Goa Public Gambling Act.
The Enough is Enough (EiE) movement has urged Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju to order an independent inquiry into the continued operation of offshore casino vessels in the Mandovi River, alleging that their presence violates the intent and provisions of the Goa Public Gambling Act.
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In a detailed representation submitted by retired Justice Ferdino Rebello, the movement contended that successive governments have failed to implement policy decisions and legislative measures aimed at relocating offshore casinos from the Mandovi River.
According to EiE, one of the key demands contained in the People’s Charter adopted on January 6, 2026, was the removal of casino vessels from the Mandovi within six months. The movement argues that amendments introduced under Section 13B of the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976, envisaged gaming vessels operating within Goa’s territorial waters rather than remaining indefinitely anchored in the river.
The representation alleges that despite notifications and policy decisions issued over the years indicating that offshore casinos would eventually be shifted, governments have repeatedly extended permissions allowing casino vessels to continue operating in the Mandovi. EiE claims these extensions have undermined the purpose of the legislation and delayed the relocation process.
The movement has also raised questions regarding a Cabinet decision reportedly taken in December 2024, which allegedly granted offshore casino licensees an extension allowing operations to continue until March 31, 2027, or until an alternative site is finalised. According to EiE, the decision warrants independent scrutiny to determine whether it was consistent with the objectives of the amended law.
In its representation, EiE further criticised the functioning of the Gaming Commissioner’s office, alleging that despite statutory powers available under the amended legislation, effective action has not been taken to enforce relocation provisions. The movement also noted that rules under the amended law are yet to be framed despite key provisions having come into force in 2020.
Apart from legal concerns, EiE highlighted environmental issues associated with the continued presence of casino vessels in the Mandovi. The movement cited concerns over reported contamination levels in river waters and alleged adverse impacts on the river ecosystem and the livelihoods of traditional fishing communities dependent on the estuary.
Calling the issue one of public importance, EiE has urged the Governor to institute an independent inquiry into decisions that allowed casino vessels to continue operating in the river and to determine whether any violations of the Goa Public Gambling Act occurred. The movement has also sought appropriate civil and criminal action against those found responsible if any wrongdoing is established.
Justice Rebello stated that the matter extends beyond gambling regulation and touches upon broader concerns relating to environmental protection, public health, governance and adherence to laws enacted by the State Legislature.
The State Government has not yet responded to the allegations made in the representation.
