The resolution was passed at its monthly meeting

The Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) passed a resolution that it would stop issuing trade licenses to floating casinos in Panaji. The resolution was passed at its monthly meeting.

During the meeting, an almost unanimous decision was taken not to issue trade and occupation licenses to any of the casino operators lining up to ply their business on the Mandovi. Although, there was an initial proposal to stop the operation of the existing casino operator, this didn’t happen.

When asked if the CCP had the authority to ban casinos, since the river is in the jurisdiction of the Captain of Ports, mayor Tony Rodrigues said, „The casino operators will apply to have their offices and counters in the city. We will not issue them any trade and occupation license,“ he said.

The CCP acted following a signature campaign and a memorandum from the Aam Admi and Aurat against Gambling (AAAG) asked the corporation to take into consideration the burden on civic infrastructure such as parking, garbage and sewerage. „There is no parking space for the casinos now operating,“ said AAAG convenor Sabina Martins.

Reacting to Wednesday’s development, the AAAG said they were initially happy to hear reports that the CCP had also decided to „revoke the license of the existing casinos“. „I think the CCP should have stuck to the decision taken at the council meeting and not compromised,“ Martins said.