Meghalaya Gambling Act Synopsis
The Meghalaya Prevention of Gambling Act, 1970 was declared invalid by the state government in February of this year. The Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Ordinance, 2021 was adopted by the state cabinet. Teer, or conventional archery games, have historically been used as a form of gambling throughout the state. However, the informal betting does not bring in money for the state government.
The Meghalaya government on Thursday revoked the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act, 2021, which permitted the construction of casinos in the state, in the face of vehement opposition from various sectors.
The Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act, 2021, which was launched last year with the goal of promoting tourism, revenue creation, and employment for the people in the state, was repealed on Thursday, according to Meghalaya’s Law Minister James K Sangma.
The Meghalaya Regulation of Gambling Act, 2021 was introduced by the State Department of Taxation to control gaming in the state.
Sangma resolved to abolish the statute after consulting with the stakeholders, which included youth organisations, non-governmental organisations, civil society representations, Dorbar Shnongs, and autonomous and local governing authorities.
Three casino establishment permits had already been obtained by the Meghalayan government.
The Joint Action Committee Against Casinos (JACAC) and other groups have been vehemently protesting the construction of the casino.
The Meghalaya Prevention of Gambling Act, 1970 was declared invalid by the state government in February of this year. The Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Ordinance, 2021 was adopted by the state cabinet.
Teer, or conventional archery games, have historically been used as a form of gambling throughout the state. However, the informal betting does not bring in money for the state government.
