Protests against the intrusions into the Goan scene

Consultant-Advisor-Resource Person through the Centre for Responsible Tourism (CRT).
Consultant from November 2007 to December 2007

Letter of protest against proposed Casinos in Goa!

We the citizens of Cansalulim-Arossim-Velsao, write to convey our deep concern over the plans of the Government of Goa to license the operation of floating casinos along the coast of Goa. You are aware that there have been citizen widespread protests over the move all over Goa. It, therefore, came as a shock when you announced that your government has plans to issue licenses fore operation of five casinos. Unconfirmed reports suggest that there are negotiations to increase the number to eleven in the not-so-distant future. We view this is an act of indifference and rejection of popular opinion by your government. The shock is even more because you have publicly promised a people-friendly government- one which seeks to serve the ‘aam aadmi’ and not vested interests. We now feel extremely betrayed and must convey to you that our confidence in your promises for clean governance has been eroded.

As a group concerned about and involved in fighting the negative impacts of gambling on our society. We support all the organizations that oppose the licensing of floating casinos in the State of Goa.

In this context we state as under:

1. The dredging activity in the River Sal where a floating casino is presently anchored will destroy the livelihood of the local fisher folk and will disturb the ecology.
2. The operation by anchoring in the River Sal will cause water pollution through disposal of solid waste materials from the casino.
3. There is also bound to be pollution from the spilling of fuel, oil and other liquid wastes, all of which can severely harm the already fragile river and sea eco- systems.
4. Since existing in-house casinos have already created social havoc, there is fear that it will draw the youth and local people to squander their meager earnings, this destroying the social fabric. (Please note that there have been reports in the local newspapers of government servants rushing to the casinos in Panjim as soon as they receive their pay packet).
5. It is an established fact that gambling is followed by a booming sex industry, drugs and crime and we do not want this to happen in our small State of Goa.

We vehemently oppose the establishments of floating casinos anywhere in Goa. We also demand that you immediately revoke the licenses for the floating casinos already in operation, as well as those that have been licensed but are not as yet operational. Your positive response to our demands will be an indication that you really care for the welfare of the people of Goa.