Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The civic movement Enough Is Enough Goa has filed a formal complaint before the Superintendent of Police, Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB)/Vigilance, alleging widespread violations of the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976, in the operation of casinos on offshore vessels and in five-star hotels.
In its complaint dated November 12, 2026, the movement has alleged that gaming activities are being conducted in casinos without the mandatory permissions and tourist permits prescribed under the Act. It has also raised concerns over alleged illegal promotion of casino gaming through newspaper advertisements, roadside billboards, airport displays, road dividers and social media.
The complaint questions the alleged failure of senior government officials to enforce the provisions of the law despite several representations made to the authorities over the past few months.
According to the movement, Sections 13B to 13L of the Goa Public Gambling Act came into force on February 1, 2020, introducing provisions relating to the Gaming Commissioner, regulation of gaming activities and issuance of tourist permits. It contends that tourists cannot legally enter designated casino gaming areas without the prescribed permits.
The organisation has particularly questioned the functioning of the Gaming Commissioner, pointing out that the Office of the Commissioner of State Tax had informed an applicant under the Right to Information Act on September 30, 2026, that relevant rules had not been framed and that no information regarding the issuance of tourist permits was maintained.
The complaint also alleges that casino gaming activities are being conducted in five-star hotels beyond the activities permitted under Section 13A of the Act, which, according to the complainants, allows only electronic amusement and slot machines in such establishments.
Another major issue raised is the alleged publication and circulation of advertisements promoting casino gaming. The movement has cited Section 12 of the Goa Public Gambling Act and alleged that advertisements appearing on highways, at Dabolim and Mopa airports, in newspapers and on social media violate the statutory restrictions.
The organisation has further questioned the alleged inaction of the Home Secretary, Gaming Commissioner, Inspector General of Police and other police authorities despite repeated complaints and correspondence.
Invoking Section 13(1)(a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, the complainants have alleged that failure by public servants to discharge their statutory duties warrants investigation. They have sought an inquiry into the roles of the concerned officials, including the Superintendents of Police of North Goa and South Goa and other officers whose conduct may come under scrutiny.
The movement has also referred to earlier representations submitted to the Chief Minister, Home Department, Inspector General of Police, Gaming Commissioner and other authorities, claiming that meaningful action has not followed.
Seeking immediate intervention, Enough Is Enough Goa has called upon the Vigilance authorities to investigate the alleged violations, examine the conduct of the officials concerned and initiate appropriate legal proceedings against those found responsible.
The complaint has been signed by the movement’s President, Govind Shirodkar, and General Secretary, Devidas Amonkar.
The allegations are contained in the complaint submitted by the organisation and are yet to be established through an independent investigation.
The story is based on the submitted complaint and its supporting documents. Allegations have been attributed to the complainants and not presented as established findings.
