In India, the chief elections official for Goa has reportedly warned casinos in the small state against laundering money for political parties while declaring that his office intends to keep a close watch on proceedings.

According to a report from Asia Gaming Brief, Shri Kunal, Chief Electoral Officer for Goa, issued the warning ahead of state elections that have been scheduled for February 4 and declared that “strict action” awaits those found guilty of “violating the norms”.

“We have already advised casino operators that they can carry on with their legal business but should not allow themselves to be used to park or distribute money for any political party or candidate,” said Kunal.

Goa is currently home to five floating casinos encompassing the Deltin Royale, Deltin Jaqk and the Deltin Caravela from Delta Corporation Limited alongside Pride Group’s Casino Pride and Casino Carnival while Asia Gaming Brief reported in mid-October that local conglomerate Essel Group is planning to open a new enterprise on the Mandovi River christened as the Casino Maharaja.