Jirang MLA and National People’s Party legislator, Sostenes Sohtun, today came out against the introduction of casinos in the state, at least in his own constituency.
The state government’s controversial amendment to the law to allow for the setting up of casinos along the Meghalaya-Assam border in Ri-Bhoi has come in for much criticism from members of the public, church leaders, politicians and pressure groups.
Parts of Sohtun’s constituency lie directly on the border with Assam. The government’s intention is to draw in visitors to these casinos from other states, especially Assam. Meghalayans will be prohibited from gambling there.
Speaking to reporters here today, Sohtun said that he had considered public opinion, which is overwhelmingly negative towards the proposal. He had also met ministers to try and get them to consider the public’s viewpoint and apprehensions.
Meanwhile, regarding the no-objection certificates issued by a few Dorbar Shnongs under Jirang constituency, Sohtun said that he had personally met the Rangbah Shnongs concerned and asked them to cancel the NOCs.
