Casinos On Mandovi Accused Of Allowing Minors On Board.

PANAJI: A citizens’ group, Ponnjekars Against Casinos (PAC), has lodged a criminal complaint at the Panaji Police Station alleging that six offshore casinos operating in the Mandovi River are allowing entry to children and persons below 21 years in violation of the law.In the complaint, PAC has urged police to register an FIR under Section 5 (xiii) of the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976, along with relevant provisions of the Goa Children’s Act, 2003. The group claimed that casino operators are “wilfully and deliberately” permitting minors to board casino vessels anchored in the Mandovi estuary.The complainants further alleged that offshore casinos are promoting kid-centric facilities such as play zones, crèches, babysitting services and entertainment activities aimed at attracting families with children. The complaint specifically mentions promotional material by casinos such as Deltin Royale Casino and Deltin Jaqk Casino, where children are allegedly allowed in certain onboard areas.PAC has stated that the law clearly prohibits entry of persons below 21 years onto offshore casino vessels and places the responsibility on licensees to enforce the restriction.The complaint also includes photographic evidence purportedly showing minors onboard the vessels. Police are yet to confirm whether an FIR has been registered, and further action is expected following examination of the complaint.