Close watch on Goa casinos, Lucky Seven awaits plug

Saturday 12th of August 2017

The activities of Goa’s onshore and offshore casinos will be closely monitored over the rest of August, with the by-elections in Panaji coming up later this month, local media reports.

Last week, the Election Commission reportedly asked the Commercial Tax Department to keep a watch on the casinos in Goa to ensure “they are not misused to stash money” during campaigning for the by-polls.

It is understood that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar is contesting from the Panaji seat.

“We have asked the Commercial Tax Department to keep a close watch on the activities of the onshore and offshore casinos so that they are not misused to stash money for campaigning by candidates or political parties,” said a senior official in the chief electoral office.

Lucky Seven not so lucky

The MV Lucky Seven, which marooned itself on a sandbar in Panaji since July is still awaiting removal, local media reports.

It is understood that a hole was found on the stranded casino cruise ship, delaying its removal.

Speaking to reporters, Chief minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday said that once the hole is plugged, the vessel can be removed safely.

"It will be removed soon. Government is concerned about its removal," he said.

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