Goa’s major parties launch against offshore casinos
Politicians’ posturing before Panaji Assembly by-election shows need for legislation
All of Goa’s major political parties have taken a stance against offshore casinos in the River Mandovi, demanding they be shut down and/ or removed from their current location. Local media has made a lot of this, although with the forthcoming May 19 Panaji Assembly by-election there is much political posturing. In this respect, India is not much different from the rest of the world.
The major parties include BJP, GSM, AAP, and Goa Forward. While Congress has promised to shift offshore casinos within 100 days if it takes power, both the Goa Foward Party and Goa Suraksha Manch (GSM), not to be left behind, have recommended a full on shut down of the casino industry if it is of no benefit to Goans. However, without proper gaming legislation neither Goa nor its population are likely to benefit much from casino operations.
Other parties like Aam Admi Party (AAP) and BJP have also made promises to remove offshore casinos from Mandovi in Goa state, located in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. It is a popular holiday place for everyone, including many politicians who are also keen on the odd punt at the floating casinos.
