In a move aimed at tightening oversight of the state’s casino industry, the Goa government has amended the Goa Public Gambling Act, introducing significantly higher fines and harsher consequences for operators found violating licence conditions.
According to a notification issued on August 6, 2025, casinos that breach the terms of their licence will now face a fine of INR 25 lakh for the first offence. Repeat violators will be penalised even more severely INR 50 lakh for the second offence and INR 75 lakh for the third or any subsequent infraction.
The amendments go beyond monetary penalties. The notification states that persistent violations could result in the outright cancellation of the casino’s operating licence, along with the forfeiture of its security deposit. These measures are designed to ensure strict compliance and deter operators from taking regulatory requirements lightly.
The casino sector is a significant contributor to Goa’s economy, attracting both domestic and international tourists. However, it has also faced criticism from various quarters over concerns ranging from social impacts to allegations of regulatory laxity. With the latest amendments, the state government appears intent on addressing these concerns by enforcing greater accountability within the industry.
Industry insiders believe the revised penalties will compel operators to strengthen internal compliance systems and avoid practices that could lead to licence breaches. At the same time, some operators have expressed apprehension that the higher fines may pose financial challenges, especially for smaller players.
The move is part of a broader effort by the Goa government to regulate the casino sector more stringently, ensuring it operates within legal boundaries while maintaining the state’s image as a premier gaming destination.