Organisations express apprehension over Meghalaya's decision to legalise gambling and online betting for tourists

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Several organisations including Meghalaya United Christian Forum (MUCF) expressed apprehension over the Meghalaya government’s decision to legalise gambling and online betting for the tourists coming to the state.

MUCF Secretary Synsharlang Kharshiing said that if the gambling, online betting and casinos were legalised it would have far-reaching consequences on the lives of the young and vulnerable men and women and their families irrespective of community and belief.

He said, “Online gambling and casinos might generate a lot of revenue for the government but the bigger question is whether people are willing to pay the price and are they ready to bear the repercussions of such an endeavour on the society at large. The leaders and the government functionaries of the state should deeply introspect before jumping head on with excitement without considering the destruction it may cause to the present and future generations,” the MUCF said in a statement.

Meghalaya’s Law and Taxation Minister James P.K. Sangma last week announced that the state government is considering introducing casinos and online gambling only for tourists coming to the state from outside to generate revenue for the government.

In February this year Meghalaya Prevention of Gambling Act, 1970 was nullified by the state government. The state cabinet approved the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Ordinance, 2021.

Traditionally there is gambling in the state with 'teer' or traditional archery games. However, the state government is not getting revenue from this informal betting.

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