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Gaming Act To Be Repealed In Meghalaya?

On Saturday, Vincent H Pala, the Meghalaya Indian National Congress president and Lok Sabha member from Shillong demanded that the Meghalaya Regulation Gaming Act 2021 be repealed. This has come after similar demands were made all quarters. There are two Lok Sabha in Meghalaya, one of which is held by Congress.

A long discussion, regarding the gaming law, was held by the Meghalaya assembly in the concluded assembly session. According to James K Sangma, minister in charge of taxation, the physical gaming premises were not meant for the local population but more for high-value individuals.

The statement from Pala comes after the Chief Minister Conrad Sangma did not rule out the enactment. However, the Lok Sabha member said if the legislation is not scrapped, the leaders of the ruling MDA coalition will be on the streets and the public in the assembly.

As per reported by the Shillong Times, Pala said, “The government has to withdraw (the Act) otherwise the coalition will be in the street and the public will be in the Assembly one day.” He also stated that even church leaders have openly expressed their opposition.

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He then further added, “Almost every society, church, and organisation is opposed to it. The government is in a hurry to pass, and the chief minister very enthusiastically said that I am the leader of the gambling committee.”

In reference to James Sangma’s statement in the assembly, Pala also argued that the belief of more tourist flow is misplaced and said that there are no facilities due to ‘rampant corruption.’

When asked if the move will ensure revenue for the state, Pala stated that revenue was also generated through other areas like coal and which are natural resources but enter the pockets of certain selected individuals.

He then questioned, “If they are not getting revenue from all the resources, what revenue will they generate from gambling? Have they put it in the public domain or given any blueprint?” He remarked, “I don’t think the people will allow it and if the public is not happy, what revenue will they generate.”

When asked to comment on the issue turning into a political agenda in view of the Assembly polls next year, Pala said the opposition to the decision concerning legalised gambling was always present and that this issue was not the first time. 

For more news and updates on the gaming act of Meghalaya, keep reading Gutshot Magazine. Follow us on our social handles Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Telegram.

Photo Credit: LiveAbout

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