Succumbing to the pressure, Meghalaya Government on Thursday has decided to repealed the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act, 2021 which was introduced last year with an aim of boosting tourism, revenue generation, and employment for the people in the state.
Informing this, Law Minister also incharge of Taxation, James K Sangma on Thursday said this decision was taken following the concerns expressed by parts of the society with regard to the scope and impact of the Act.
Taxation Minister said, “Last year, with the aim of boosting tourism, revenue generation and employment for the people of our state, the Department of Taxation, Government of Meghalaya, introduced the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act, 2021, under my guidance. This Act would legalise and regulate gaming in Meghalaya. Till that extent, introducing casinos — meant for tourists only — was considered as well.”
Earlier the Government met with the stakeholders which included religious organizations, non-governmental organizations, civil society representations, Dorbar Shnongs, autonomous and local governance bodies, and youth organizations following which the decision was taken.
James further added, “Over the months that followed, there were concerns expressed from parts of the society with regards to the scope and impact of the Act. I met with stakeholders that included religious organisations, non-governmental organisations, civil society representations, Dorbar Shnongs, autonomous and local governance bodies and youth organisations. During this process, I tried to understand the concerns of the public and the impact that the Act could have further on.
“Following such meetings and deliberations, it became clear to me that it is in the best interest of our state to completely scrap the Act, given that there could be untoward implications. Therefore, it will be my earnest endeavour to see that the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act, 2021, will be repealed, he said.
The State Department of Taxation introduced the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act, 2021 for the regulations of gaming in the state. He however, welcomed suggestion and advise from people in this regard.
“I would like to thank everyone who came forward to aid, advise and provide feedback to the Government on the Act. The citizenry is the keystone of any democracy and it only strengthens our commitment to better governance when the collective conscience is addressed,” the Minister said.