BJP promises to relocate off shore casinos in Goa

PANAJI: Opposition BJP today assured to relocate the off shore casinos from the state capital once they come to power in the March 3 Goa assembly polls.

Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar, releasing his manifesto for Panaji constituency, however said that off shore casinos cannot be scrapped as government has given them licences.

"We are very clear. There will be regularisation of the casinos. They can't block the river," he said.

Off shore casinos, which are mounted on huge vessels, currently anchor in the Mandovi river. As per the licencing terms, they ought to be working five nautical miles away from the shore.

Goa has six off shore casinos. "If required, we will not renew their licences," Parrikar said responding to a question.

He said that Goans would be banned from entering in off shore casinos and also persons below 21 years of age will be barred for entry.