Move would be “unconstitutional,” says Britto
The government of Goa is pondering a blanket ban on locals play at the Indian state’s 15 casinos, reports CalvinAyre.com.
Under the proposed new legislation, anyone who wanted to enter a Goa casino would have to show proof of identity and residency to get a state-issued access pass, the website reported; otherwise, all Goans and all people under 21 who enter a casino would be subject to arrest. The rules would not apply to residents who work in casinos, said Home Secretary Sanjiv Gadkar. Law enforcement would be empowered to enter casinos on a regular basis to check identities and licenses, and casinos would be fined for breaches of the law.
The state may also establish an independent gaming commission. The new rules may be approved and implemented in the next year, reported the website. Meanwhile, on March 31 the licenses of the state’s four offshore casinos will come up for renewal at the government’s discretion.
William Britto, owner of Chances Casino, says any drive to keep locals out of casinos would be “unconstitutional and counterproductive.” Britto said the Indian gaming industry has helped boost tourism and create jobs.
Meanwhile, Goa’s first on-shore casino license has been granted to Delta Corp, which owns and operates three offshore live casinos there. Delta Corp will operate the casino at its hotel Deltin Suites and offer blackjack, baccarat, roulette and other games.
A BSE filing noted, “The company will strengthen its presence in the gaming business with this operation, thereby reinforcing its leadership position in the India gaming and entertainment business.”
Delta Corp had reported consolidated net profit of $0.10 million in the third quarter compared to loss of $0.05 million during the same period in 2014. The company’s consolidated total income rose 23.2 percent at $1.40 million versus $1.14 million year-on-year.
