MAPUSA
A fresh controversy has erupted in the Mapusa Municipal Market, with allegations surfacing about the rampant conduct of illegal matka gambling activities within the market’s premises.
Municipal shops, stalls and open spaces have reportedly become hubs for this unlawful activity, allegedly thriving with the support of the local municipal inspector who is accused of accepting bribes, or hafta, to turn a blind eye to the operations.
Prominent RTI activist and resident of Mapusa, Jawaharlal Shetye has written to the Mapusa Police Inspector, demanding immediate intervention to put an end to the illegal gambling activities.
According to Shetye’s complaint, numerous stalls and shops within the Mapusa Municipal Market are allowing anti-social elements to conduct matka gambling.
Municipal inspector under fire
Shetye’s letter includes serious accusations against a municipal inspector who, he alleges, is regularly collecting hafta from the individuals operating the matka gambling business.
This hafta system, a form of protection money, ensures that these illegal activities can continue unchecked within the municipal market premises.
“The municipal inspector is collecting hafta from anti-social elements and allowing them to openly collect matka bids in the market,” Shetye alleged in his formal complaint.
He added that it is the responsibility of the municipal inspectors to ensure that such illegal activities are halted and that legal businesses operating in the market are protected from such criminal elements.
In his letter, Shetye has included the names of several shops and stalls within the market where these illegal activities are reportedly taking place.
Lacking enforcement power
Shetye also highlighted the inadequacies in policing within the market area.
He noted that police personnel deployed to the market are not given sufficient authority to book cases against individuals involved in matka gambling and other illegal activities.
“The police personnel in the market are not empowered to take legal action against the anti-social elements who are openly conducting matka gambling activities,” Shetye said, underscoring the need for a stronger police presence with the necessary authority to curb these illegal practices.
Call for action
In his complaint, Shetye has not only called for an investigation into the illegal gambling activities but has also requested that action be taken against the municipal inspector for his alleged involvement in the scandal.
Local residents and traders have echoed Shetye’s concerns, with many expressing frustration over the lack of action by both the police and the municipal authorities.
Traders fear that the unchecked gambling operations could drive away legitimate business and tarnish the reputation of the Mapusa Municipal Market, one of the busiest commercial hubs in North Goa.
The ball is now in the court of the Mapusa Police, who have been formally alerted to the issue.
