Goa child rights panel directs ban on minor’s entry into casino vessels
Offshore casinos in Goa that operate on the River Mandovi were allegedly allowing children to enter the vessels in violation of the law until a group of activists raised the issue
The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSPCR) has instructed the state government to ban children under 18 years from entering offshore casino vessels and casino premises, and to take stringent measures against operators who breach the Goa Children’s Act, 2003. The ban was prompted by allegations that offshore casinos on the River Mandovi were permitting children to board the vessels, which was against the law.
Activists had raised concerns and filed complaints against casino operators for allowing underage individuals on board in violation of the law.
In response, the Commission directed the government to implement several measures to ensure compliance. These include mandating age verification at all entry points via valid government-issued identification, displaying prominent signs stating “Entry of Children below 18 years is Strictly Prohibited,” and requiring the Police Department and licensing authorities to conduct regular inspections to enforce compliance.
Such actions were deemed violations of the Goa Children’s Act, 2003, and potentially harmful to the physical, mental, and moral development of children, according to GSPCR Chairperson Shashikant Punaji. Punaji emphasized that the act mandates the state to safeguard children from exploitation and that exposing children to gambling environments is contrary to child protection principles.
The Home Department had issued a notification on July 17 prohibiting entry for individuals under 21 years into casino "gaming areas" only. However, the state's casino industry, valued at around ₹1,000 crore annually, includes 19 venues that are estimated to contribute around ₹400 crore in licence fees and approximately ₹90 crore per year in State GST.
With six gaming vessels operating along a one-kilometre stretch of the River Mandovi, each venue reportedly generates an annual turnover of about ₹120 crore and attracts between 600 and 800 visitors, particularly on weekends.
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