Shilong: Chief Minister of Megalaya Conrad K Sangma on Monday made it clear that the government will not repeal the Meghalaya Gambling Regulation Act 2021.
Speaking to the media, Sangma said that the Law was introduced precisely because there are gambling halls operating even today without licenses, jackpot halls and other games that are underway.
He highlighted the need to regulate the old ones that exist.
In addition, the CM said that the regulations that are entering prohibit the locals from playing. “Then it is precisely to achieve the objective that everyone wants, which is that local youth are not allowed. So this is exactly what people or different organizations have been asking for. Hence, the question of repeal does not arise because it is a Law that is required to regulate the existing games and also to regulate the people who play in these different spaces”, explained Sangma.
Regarding the installation of casinos, Sangma reiterated the government’s position not to go ahead after seeing strong opposition from various stakeholders.
The Prime Minister also explained that this Act has been passed by all House legislatures, with the support of all MLAs on the ruling side.
Meanwhile, Opposition Chief George Lyngdoh, during a meeting in Nongpoh, mentioned how the Trinamool Congress has been fighting tooth and nail to prevent casinos from being established in the state.
Speaking about the adverse effects of gambling on the youth of the state, TMC MLA had previously said, “The other guidelines in the law, such as online gaming and online betting, would bring a great loss to the youth of the state. They all own cell phones and have the power in their hands to engage in online betting and gambling, which will lead to addiction even if they don’t go to casinos. They played at home, in educational institutions.”
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