The Association of Offshore Casinos (AOC) says that its members will continue to defy an order by the government of Goa to move their vessels from the Mandovi River by 8 June. The AOC has petitioned the Panaji Bench of the Bombay High Court against the order, on the grounds that the offshore casino licences were issued for the Mandovi location. A hearing is expected next week.

Dissatisfaction with the casino operations in Goa has been growing amongst local residents since the state government greatly increased the number of licences granted. Six offshore casino licences are already operational, with a seventh casino boat expected to arrive shortly. Following allegations of massive corruption in the granting of licences and growing opposition from local fisherman, environmentalists, some politicians and the public in general, the government ordered the vessels to be moved from the Mandovi River to Aguada Bay.

Despite the AOC meeting twice with the Captain of Ports, so far no agreement has been reached. Aguada Bay does not have the calm waters of the Mandovi River and the casino vessel operators say that inhospitable conditions would make seasickness a problem for passengers and gaming staff. Both the government and the operators will await the High Court ruling before deciding what further action to take. (E-06.03.09)

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