Maharashtra Govt Bans Casino : Scraps Casino Act

In a decisive move that resonates with historical significance, the Maharashtra cabinet has cast aside the long-standing specter of the Maharashtra Casino (Control and Tax) Act of 1976, formally laying to rest years of conjecture surrounding the potential legalization of gambling within the state.

The 1976 Act, which had loomed for decades without ever being implemented, found itself mired in a quagmire of opposition, uncertainty, and regulatory voids. The complexities and contentiousness that enveloped the legislation prevented its enactment, leaving a palpable void in the discourse.

Despite the mounting appeals from tourism bodies and corporate entities seeking the green light for casino operations within Maharashtra’s bustling tourism hubs, the state government has demonstrated unwavering resolve in dismantling the dormant legislation.

An undisclosed official from the home department offered insights into the decision-making process, revealing that while the Act delineated fundamental aspects such as definitions, constraints, penalties, and age restrictions for casino entry, it failed to furnish the intricate operational guidelines necessary for compliance. The resultant gaps, coupled with vocal objections and critiques, engendered a state of protracted indecision, compelling the administration to chart a definitive course.

“The issue of granting casino permissions repeatedly surfaced, causing the government to hesitate due to potential backlash. Proposals had been submitted by the finance and tourism departments a few years ago, advocating casino operations as a revenue stream. Multiple operators had approached the tourism department with at least four pending proposals, citing provisions in the Act. The decision to discard the Act by the Eknath Shinde-led government signifies a resolute stance and extinguishes any prospects of future casino permissions,” the official asserted.

Amid this landscape, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s labor wing also entered the fray, articulating a plea to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for the authorization of casinos in the state. This plea, however, has been quashed by the resolute decision to nullify the existing legislation.

A second home department insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that those interested in establishing casinos within Mumbai had initiated legal proceedings, invoking provisions within the Act. The eradication of this legislation is poised to eliminate any legal basis for such litigation.

Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis, addressing the matter during the recent monsoon session of the state assembly, unequivocally proclaimed the government’s stance. “The state government vehemently opposes such activities and unequivocally rejects the notion of granting casino permissions. A bill will be introduced to abolish the prevailing Act,” Fadnavis affirmed in late July.

While the state government had signaled its intent to repeal the eight-page Act, the conclusion of the session on August 4, 2023, saw the anticipated bill’s non-appearance on the legislative floor.

In a resounding gesture, the Maharashtra cabinet has etched its stand into the annals of governance, signaling the unequivocal end of a legislative era and the termination of any contemplation regarding the operation of casinos within the state’s borders.