Panaji, October 25, 2026: The widespread display of casino advertisements across Goa has raised serious questions over the enforcement of the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act, 1976, with demands growing for immediate action against advertisements allegedly promoting and encouraging gambling.

Section 12 of the Act empowers police officers not below the rank of sub-inspector to arrest without warrant persons involved in printing, publishing, distributing or circulating news, information or documents that aid, encourage or facilitate gaming. The provision also covers the dissemination of digits, figures and related information connected with gaming.

The continued appearance of casino advertisements on prominent hoardings, highways, newspapers, television and social media has therefore raised an important legal question: If the law provides for action against material that encourages gambling, why are casino advertisements being permitted so openly?

The issue assumes greater significance when compared with the restrictions imposed on tobacco advertising under Section 5 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA). While tobacco advertisements are subject to stringent statutory restrictions, critics argue that similar seriousness is missing in the enforcement of laws governing gambling promotions in Goa.

Section 13G of the Goa gambling legislation also places restrictions on entry into designated casino gaming areas, including restrictions affecting residents of Goa. Yet casino advertisements are prominently displayed in public spaces and circulated through media platforms accessible to everyone, including young people and local residents.

Questions Over Police Inaction

The apparent lack of enforcement has prompted allegations that the influential casino industry enjoys preferential treatment from the authorities.

Critics have questioned why police authorities, who act promptly in various other matters, have not visibly initiated comparable enforcement measures against advertisements allegedly falling within the scope of Section 12.

They argue that the law cannot be applied selectively depending on the financial or political influence of those involved.

The issue also raises questions about the responsibilities of municipal bodies, advertising agencies, media organisations and government departments responsible for granting permissions for outdoor publicity.

Demand for Immediate Action

Those seeking stricter enforcement have demanded the immediate scrutiny and removal of casino advertisements found to violate Section 12, action against persons and agencies responsible for unlawful promotions, and a comprehensive review of permissions granted for casino-related publicity across Goa.

They have also called for uniform enforcement of gambling laws, without preferential treatment for casino operators.

Should the government and enforcement agencies continue to remain inactive, they have urged the High Court of Bombay at Goa to consider taking suo motu cognizance of the issue in the larger public interest.

The fundamental question is whether Goa’s gambling laws are being enforced in letter and spirit or whether the casino industry’s commercial interests are being allowed to overshadow statutory restrictions.