Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: For almost two months now, the casinos (on and off-shore) are shut in the State but the online gaming like Rummy and Roulette have kept the gamblers busy even during the pandemic times.
Yes, sounds shocking but true, the gambling industry – which was ruled by the casinos and matka, has now taken over by the online Gaming industry, which are registered elsewhere in the country or different part of the world.
Police sources reveal that many students, young working professionals and businessmen are increasingly becoming addicted to online gambling and are putting large amounts of money at stake hoping to make a windfall.
“Students are now signing up in large numbers on several gambling apps like rummy apps available online, and are transferring money using online payment interfaces. Bets are placed mainly on cricket and football matches, some roulette games are also mushroomed online, who are duping the youth. The youth, who believe they have a good chance of winning the bets due to their knowledge of the game, put a lot of money at stake and end up losing it all,” said sources.
Adda 52, Classic Rummy, Junglee Rummy, Taj Rummy, Rummy Circle, Indigo Rummy, Rummy Passion, Rummy Villa, Deccan Rummy, Ace 2 Three, Rummy Culture, Rummy Millionaire, Rummy Central, Go Rummy, Poker Stars are some of the rummy websites which offer huge bonus on joining (see table).
There are also online casino website likes goacasinoonline.com which allow online gambling.
The result of bonuses offered, the students and youth get tempted and lose much more on the apps.
“Desperate to recoup their losses, they bet more money hoping to win it all. This cycle repeats itself a few times by which the youths are sunk into large debts. They then go into depression, and unable to figure a way out of this mess, end up killing themselves,” a police officer said requesting not to be named.
The gambling apps has not only ruined families but have also led to suicides by youth.
“What is more worrisome is that our youngsters have become addicted to this type of gambling. Many have lost their properties. I appeal to parents and elders to come out and register a complaint against online platforms if any youngster is addicted to gambling and forcing them to give away their properties,” police sources said.
“Police are trying to keep surveillance on online transactions. However, organisers are running the illegal business through various apps. We request the parents to keep a tab on their children and monitor their movements and financial transactions, and particularly their friends’ circle,” a cybercrime official said.
Neighbouring states have banned,
What is Goa waiting for?
Karnataka is actively considering imposing a ban on online gaming sites and mobile applications (apps) in the state
A Karnataka minister has recently said that online games are ruining many lives in the state. “We have noticed it. Many illegal gambling and betting websites have mushroomed during the lockdown. We need to put an end to such a menace,” the minister said.
Even Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government announced a significant decision to ban online gambling and betting.
Reddy’s cabinet gave its approval to amendments to the Gaming Act – 1974 to facilitate the ban.
As per the new rules, those organising online games will get one year imprisonment and those playing will be jailed for six months. Repeat offenders will be given two years jail term. The cabinet felt that online games and bettings are ruining lives and creating disturbances in families.
Illegal gaming not allowed: South SP
South Goa is become a hub of illegal gambling be it online or in the markets. Recently a raid was conducted by the South SP on such gambling den and arrests were also made. However, locals say this is just the tip of an iceberg, there are many more such illegal places operation online and offline.
South Goa SP Pankaj Kumar Singh said that Goa Police is keeping close tab on such illegal activities.
“Whatever online gambling have got licenses are allowed but those don’t have permission are not allowed. If we get any complaint we will take action,” the SP South said.
