the goan I network
VASCO
Taking note of several complaints by women about their husbands addicted to gambling, the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) has decided to initiate stringent actions against many illegal gambling dens in the port town.
According to MMC sources, a large number of kiosks with trade licences registered for general stores are being used as gambling dens and mini casinos (computer roulette).
“Some women had met the councillors complaining that their husbands had sold practically everything due to their addiction to gambling in such dens at the kiosks after dusck, especially near the Vegetable market areas and Cine Vasco lanes,” said the source.
The regular visits of aggrieved women have compelled the MMC to place the issue of illegal dens to be discussed in the next council meeting.
When contacted, a councillor on anonymity said it was time the MMC ensures that gambling dens are shut down because a large number of people and their families have been destroyed due to gambling. “I have known a government servant who committed suicide after losing all his assets to gambling. Unlike other vices, gambling does not have an upper limit and a person can even mortgage his assets for money to gamble,” said the Councillor.
When contacted, MMC Chief Officer Agnelo Fernandes said he had asked municipal inspectors to submit a report in this regards. “If required, I will use police force to shut down such dens on a permanent basis,” warned Fernandes.
“It is brought to my notice that many illegal gaddas have come up within the jurisdiction of this council without any permission. I have also been informed that illegal gambling dens have mushroomed in the municipality. I have directed our municipal inspectors to inspect the area and submit a report within seven days. Gambling and computerised casinos will not be tolerated nor allowed in the municipality.”
