Housie events continue in South Goa despite ban

Margao: Despite explicit prohibitions from the South Goa district administration, Housie operations continue to flourish across the Salcete taluka, with the authorities struggling to curb the activity. The post-Easter period saw a marked increase in these gambling operations, which are often disguised as entertainment events to evade legal scrutiny.
In the most recent case, Colva police filed charges against organisers of a high-stakes Housie event in Varca that was disguised as a musical show and reportedly offered prizes totalling approximately Rs 13 lakh, attracting numerous participants. Police sources named Protos Fernandes as the primary organiser, charging him and several accomplices under the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976. “The investigation is still in its preliminary stages, but we gathered significant evidence regarding the scale of this operation,” the police said.
The illegal gambling activity reportedly took place at the Varca Sports Club ground last week. Acting on a tip, police arrived at the scene only to discover that the event had already concluded. These violations occurred despite a comprehensive ban imposed by South Goa district collector, Egne Cleetus, on Housie events. The district collector issued specific instructions earlier this month aimed at completely halting these operations, which have been steadily increasing throughout the district.
Sources said that similar events were recently held at Navelim, Benaulim, and Quepem. Social activists have demanded stronger enforcement measures. “The district administration provided clear instructions weeks ago for deputy collectors and SDMs to work with police on inspections, raids, and seizures. Why do these events continue to operate with impunity?” a Salcete resident questioned.