More Matka Tales from Goa:GAMBLING ACT TO BE AMENDED

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Documented by Goa Desc Documentation Service
& circulated by Goa Civic & Consumer Action Network
(GOA CAN)<goadesc-0VrrOzQoB60xpvK4C0GaPQ@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> Ph:2252660
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GAMBLING ACT TO BE AMENDED
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In its new resolve to crack down on matka with an iron hand,
the state government will shortly issue an ordinance to amend
the Gambling Act to raise the fine and period of imprisonment
for the offenders and the abettors.

Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who has committed himself
to curb matka in view of the awareness campaign by the
Gomantak Group, is considering to increase the fine to Rs 5,000
and imprisonment to minimum six months for bookies and
those laying bets.

The government will also seek to introduce an element of
accountability among the police officers while dealing
with matka cases.

Even those involved in publishing and sale of charts and booklets
on matka would be made liable. The chief minister said newspapers
could contribute by halting publication of matka numbers.

Parrikar who spoke at length on measures to curb matka
in the state revealed that a detailed strategy was being planned
to handle the issue in several aspects.

Firstly, measures like video filming during the raids could be
taken to ensure that proper procedure is followed and the money
seized is accounted for by the police. In short, the police
will not be able to pocket the money, he remarked.

Legal opinion is also being sought to assess whether action
can also be initiated against shopkeepers and businessmen
who allow matka agents to function from their premises.
Imposing fines, arresting them and even cancellation
of business licence is being contemplated.

At the outset, Parrikar plans to call a meeting of all top police
officers in the state to send a message that the matka menace
will not be taken lightly any more. The officers will be warned
about disciplinary action if matka continues in their jurisdiction.

Speaking to Gomantak Times, Parrikar said, "It was not that I
was helpless in dealing with the police force in connection with
matka. I have given them a long rope, hoping that the police will
understand the seriousness of the offence and their job. I have
given police sufficient time and instructions in the past to deal
with matka firmly, but they have by and large failed in their duties."

Policemen who either overlook matka or bless the activities
in their respective areas will be made accountable and urged
people to provide information about bookies and bettors.

Parrikar claimed that a sum of about Rs 25 to Rs 30 lakh is paid
at various police stations per month as a bribe to allow matka
and about 20-25 percent of the population play it in Goa.

Asked why the government differentiates between matka and
on-line lottery, Parrikar shot back," I do not justify on-line lottery.

If there is a national consensus to ban it, why should Goa allow it.
But if other states permit on-line lottery on all India basis
(including Goa), why should we forgo the revenue from
such activity? This revenue can be used for a good purpose."

"What we will be doing is issue an license to conduct
on-line lottery on all India basis. We may also consider
in restricting its operation in Goa," he said.

However, Parrikar said he was worried that police may harass
common citizens to find other means and ways to make good
their 'booty' which they stand to lose if matka is curbed.
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GOMANTAK TIMES  20/11/02   Page 1
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Working On Issues Of Development & Democracy
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What's On In Goa (WOIG): 
Nov 06 Children's book exhibn opens, Walkabout, Anjuna... (all weekdays)
Nov 06 ArtHouse, Calangute: Chaitali's acrylics on canvas till 19.11
Nov 07 Revision of electoral rolls (till Nov 30) See schedule.
Dec 01 Two day conference, Goa Agenda. IT For Society. (Ends 2.12) 
Every Sunday: Music therapy sessions at Moira, 5 pm. 278, N.Portugal

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