Slamming the pro-casino policy of the Goa government, a legislative committee has alleged that the home department is turning a blind eye towards the illegal functioning of some off-shore and land-based casinos in the coastal state.

"Three of the six off-shore casinos in Mandovi river are without valid No objection certificate (NOC) from Captain of Ports," the Adhoc Committee led by Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar, said.

"In addition, two ships (mounted with casinos) are operating without valid licences by Director General (DG) Shipping," the Committee observed.

The ad hoc committee report tabled on Thursday in the ongoing monsoon Goa legislative assembly session, has criticised state government's pro-casino policy which neglects the legal responsibilities.

The Parrikar-led Committee has said that home department has been acting as if it has no responsibilities towards the legal functioning of the casinos.

"The Committee would like to censure the department without mincing any words," the report said.

Goa's civic organisations and Opposition BJP has been objecting to off shore casinos in the state.

The protest stems from the fear that such off shore gaming dens would tag Goa as a gambling destination bringing in all the vices related to the trade.

Also, the proximity of the ships mounted with gambling equipments has been a bone of contention.

The Committee has also observed irregularities in land based casinos, which operate from five star hotel premises.

As far as land based casinos are concerned, the home department has permitted casinos in the hotel properties whose five star status have expired a year back, it noted.


"There is a casino currently operating in a hotel which does not have five-star rating from the concerned authority of central government.

The (gambling) licence has been issued based on the certificate of state tourism department and therefore it is a violation of the (gambling) act," the report said.

Alleging government's unwillingness to shift the casinos from Mandovi river (in Panaji) to five nautical miles in the sea, the Committee observed that the matter of location of off shore casinos is languishing in the High court for more than 15 months now.

It said that the delay is 'due to total careless attitude of the government.' The ad hoc body has suspected that there are elements in government which ensures delay in court decision to the benefit of casinos and detrimental to the interest of the 'Aam Admi' (common man).

Also, it has recommended that the appropriate extensive legal framework is the need of hour in view of government's policy of allowing the casinos to operate.