CALANGUTE: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has demanded that Goan youth be immediately banned from visiting casinos. He urged Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar to fulfil the assurances given by former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar that no Goan youth would be given entry to casinos.
Lobo also stated that the Candolim panchayat had sent him a copy of letter clearly stating that the local body had not issued any license to run a casino in Candolim.
“It is unfortunate that Goan youth as well as small and marginal business owners have fallen prey to gambling. Many married women have also informed me that their husbands are gambling away their hard-earned money at a casino in Candolim. They stated that their husbands have lost lakhs of rupees and even gold ornaments out of greed and to make fast money. A few have also borrowed money by pawning gold ornaments, but they have lost all that money,” said Lobo while addressing the press at his office.
He continued, “Candolim panchayat has made it clear in writing that they have not given any permission for the casinos. The North Goa Planning and Development Authority will accordingly inspect the premises, and if any violation is found, it will consider demolition. We do not want any casino in Calangute constituency and will ask the Chief Minister to cancel the casino licence issued to Grand 7 Casino of ‘O’ Hotel at Candolim.
