Herald: After the government’s decision to extend the time limit by another seven months for casinos to shift from River Mandovi, what is the party’s stand now?
Wilfred Misquita: I have not been briefed by the government and the party over the issue but giving seven months’ time indicates that the government is serious about the matter or else the government would have extended it further, perhaps for one year or so. The government has not given them a lot of time and they have to be relocated within that time frame.
Herald: Isn’t this decision of the government against the promises made to the people and against the election manifesto?
WM: Manifest of the BJP is for five years. We have given them only seven months and they have to be out of River Mandovi after seven months and before the end of our government’s tenure, the casino issue will be sorted out permanently. After seven months, we also have more time to before our tenure ends.
Herald: It appears that the casino lobby in Goa is very strong and that they can manipulate the government and their decisions. What you say about that?
WM: No, I want to say only one thing. Once a marriage is done, it is difficult to break. Similarly, since it is become a part of the economy of Goa, it should be handled carefully. There is also a question of income to the state exchequer, and many other issues are involved. It becomes difficult to settle these issues overnight.
Herald: How will you respond to the people of Goa over the casino issue in the 2017 assembly polls?
WM: As I have said, the government has given an ultimatum to the casino industry saying seven months. Why bring up that now? Our manifesto is for five years and after five years, if we are not able to satisfy the people of Goa on the casino promise, then they have the right to hesitate.
