Panaji, June 1: The Enough is Enough (EiE) movement has formally written to Goa Governor P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju, demanding an independent inquiry into what it describes as the illegal continuation of offshore casino vessels in the River Mandovi, allegedly in violation of provisions of the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976.
In a detailed representation submitted by Ferdino Rebello, Convenor of the movement, EiE alleged that successive governments have ignored both legislative intent and Cabinet decisions relating to the relocation of offshore casinos from the Mandovi River.
Casinos Were Supposed to Move Out of Mandovi
The movement pointed out that one of the major demands included in the People’s Charter adopted on January 6, 2026, was the removal of casino vessels from the Mandovi within six months.
According to the representation, amendments introduced under Section 13B of the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976, make it clear that gaming vessels must operate within the territorial waters of Goa and not continue indefinitely inside the Mandovi River.
EiE argued that the expression “territorial waters” refers to waters extending up to 12 nautical miles from the coastline and that the original intent of the law was to shift casino operations away from the river ecosystem.
Government Accused of Repeatedly Extending Deadlines
The movement highlighted a series of notifications and amendments issued over the years that allowed offshore casinos to remain in the Mandovi despite repeated assurances that they would be relocated.
According to the note enclosed with the Governor, notifications issued in 2013 and 2016 clearly indicated that casino operators were expected to make alternative arrangements and move out of the river within specified time limits.
EiE alleged that despite these provisions, governments have repeatedly extended permissions, eventually allowing offshore casinos to continue operations in the Mandovi until March 31, 2027, or until an alternative site is finalised.
The movement contends that such extensions defeat the very purpose of the legislation and raise serious questions about the influence exercised by casino operators over government decision-making.
Questions Raised Over 2024 Cabinet Decision
A major concern raised by EiE relates to a Cabinet decision reportedly taken on December 18, 2024, granting offshore casino licensees an extension from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2027.
The movement alleges that while a proposal before the Cabinet reportedly referred to a shorter extension period, the final decision permitted casino vessels to continue operating in the Mandovi for several more years.
Rebello claimed that such decisions warrant independent scrutiny and investigation.
Gaming Commissioner Criticised
EiE also questioned the functioning of the Gaming Commissioner, stating that although powers exist under the amended law, including powers relating to the regulation and seizure of vessels, effective action has allegedly not been taken.
The movement further pointed out that although provisions of the amended law came into force in February 2020, corresponding rules have still not been framed, raising concerns about the manner in which gaming activities continue to be regulated.
Environmental and Livelihood Concerns Raised
Apart from legal issues, the representation highlights environmental concerns surrounding the presence of casino vessels in the Mandovi.
The movement stated that monitoring of river water around the casino vessels has reportedly shown alarming levels of faecal E. coli contamination, posing risks to the river ecosystem and affecting traditional fishing communities dependent on the Mandovi estuary.
EiE argued that the continued operation of casinos in the river threatens the livelihoods of local fishermen and adversely impacts the environmental health of Goa’s most important river system.
Demand for Independent Inquiry
The movement urged the Governor, as the constitutional head of the State, to order an independent inquiry into the decisions that allowed offshore casinos to continue operating in the Mandovi despite legislative provisions and earlier policy decisions favouring relocation.
EiE also called for appropriate civil and criminal action against all persons found responsible for permitting casino vessels to function in the alleged violation of Section 13B of the Goa Public Gambling Act.
Rebello stated that the matter goes beyond the issue of gambling and concerns the rule of law, environmental protection, public health, and the constitutional responsibility of the State to act in accordance with legislation enacted by the Goa Legislature.
