The Joint Action Committee that was set up to oppose the introduction of casinos in Ri-Bhoi have come away pleased from a meeting with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma after he assured them that the idea has been scrapped.
Pressure groups, traditional institutions, political parties and the church all expressed misgivings about the government’s plans to turn the Ri-Bhoi area near the Assam border into a mini Macao. The government was at pains to make clear that Meghalayans would not be allowed into the casinos – they would be exclusively for visitors to the state, with Guwahatians the main target.
The JAC was formed by the Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong Ri Bhoi and three pressure groups. A delegation met with Sangma today to submit a memorandum opposing casinos in the district.
Instead of gambling, which they fear will promote a “hedonistic culture” and “incentivise criminal behaviour”, they would rather see Meghalaya be a hub of education, sport and tourism.
Speaking to reporters, JAC secretary Ferdinald Kharkamni described the meeting as fruitful as the CM told them that the plan has been scrapped.
“The consent of the people of Ri-Bhoi is not there and they are against the idea of casinos. So, it was a positive meeting and I’m glad the government listened to the voice of the people,” Kharkamni said.
