The people of Panaji, and Goans in general, must strongly oppose the offshore casinos anchored on the River Mandovi, which are tarnishing the image of the capital city and damaging its moral and social fabric. These floating casinos have transformed Panaji into a gambling hub, while many traditional businesses continue to suffer. Serious concerns have arisen over the proposal to replace the smaller MV Royale Flotel with a much larger 112-metre casino vessel presently anchored at Mormugao. Citizens’ groups, including the movement “Enough is Enough” led by former Justice Ferdino Rebello, are rightly challenging this move through public protests and legal action. Allegations have surfaced that there is no proper legal provision permitting the replacement with a larger vessel and that licensing procedures may not fully comply with the law. Beyond legality, the larger issue remains the continued presence of all six offshore casinos in the Mandovi. These gambling dens are accused of degrading Goa’s culture, influencing youth negatively, causing environmental damage through untreated sewage discharge, and allegedly evading massive tax liabilities. A recent signature campaign by Panaji residents clearly reflects growing public opposition.
