The torchlight march once led by the late Manohar Parrikar against casinos, and the subsequent permission granted to the tallest casino vessel, together highlight a transformation in the BJP’s policy on casinos—something political analysts will surely find worthy of study.

Among the ten major demands approved by the people’s movement under retired Justice Ferdino Rebello, one key demand was the removal of casinos from the Mandovi. However, due to land conversions driven by the Town Planning Department, other demands have been sidelined. Now, with Delta Cruise Ltd preparing to launch a massive new casino vessel in the Mandovi, the casino issue is likely to become the focal point of public agitation.Although the state government had taken a policy decision to remove casinos from the Mandovi, the absence of an alternative site has led to temporary renewals, allowing the ruling government to continue its short-term economic gains. Casino licenses have now been renewed until March 2027, with assurances that no further renewals will be granted. Since assembly elections are scheduled for February 2027, the final decision will rest with the next government.In the meantime, the ruling establishment appears intent on extracting as much personal benefit as possible from the casino industry. The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority has already given the green signal for Delta’s new 112-meter-long vessel to replace the old Royal Floatel in the Mandovi.This vessel, five storeys high with a total height of 26.50 meters, has prompted critics to sarcastically ask whether the BJP government will cite its height as a metaphor for “development.”The contrast between Parrikar’s anti-casino march and the approval of the tallest casino vessel underscores a clear shift in BJP’s stance on casinos.Initially, Ports Minister Michael Lobo had taken a cautious position, insisting that the Chief Minister should decide. The Port Secretary had even stated that granting permission before framing a casino policy would be inappropriate. Yet, file notings reveal that Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant firmly approved the proposal.It is difficult to believe that Sawant could resist the casino lobby’s web of influence. As Chief Minister, he must ensure his long-term hold on power and strengthen his party’s financial base—making such bold decisions almost inevitable.By giving the casino lobby a free hand, the government has ensured its coffers remain well-filled. Although a notification was issued on 31 January 2020 appointing the Commissioner of commercial tax as Gaming Commissioner, no rules defining the Commissioner’s role have been framed even after six years.According to information presented in the Assembly, the state government earned ₹1,715 crore 16 lakh 43 thousand in revenue from casinos over the past five years. This official figure itself suggests how much more might be happening privately, beyond government records.Currently, Goa has 16 land-based casinos and 6 offshore casinos. In addition to official revenue, there are arrears of ₹384 crore. Reports suggest that while government dues remain pending, certain casino operators are allowed to continue business by paying fixed sums privately to keep their licenses active.This overall situation, combined with the long-standing dependence of many on the casino industry, is undoubtedly steering Goa towards ruin.Mr. Kishor Naik GaonkarEditor