Goa: CM mum on transfer of off-shore casinos

Facing opposition from within the party over the casino policy, Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar today refused to clear the air as to whether the new rules would allow transfer/sale of off-shore casino vessels.

The policy is currently being drafted by the Home Department, and it would be vetted by the Law Department.

"I can't remember what new rules say...Whether there is a provision or not," Parrikar said, talking to reporters today.

Two days ago, state BJP spokesman Dr Wilfred Mesquita had opposed the provision to allow transfer of casino vessels by one company to another.

Parrikar had earlier said it would be permissible.

The rules under the new policy are likely to be notified by February 28.

Parrikar today only said that if there was such a provision, it would be followed. "If not, then permission would not be granted."

BJP, in its election manifesto in 2012, had opposed the off-shore casinos themselves.