Itanagar, Mar 6: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Thursday acknowledged that despite existing laws, illegal gambling, unauthorized lottery sales, and forceful donations continue unabated in the state.
Responding to a Private Member Resolution (PMR) moved by the lone Congress MLA Kumar Waii, Mein assured the assembly that the government would strictly enforce laws to curb the menace.
Moving the resolution, Waii urged the government to take immediate steps to halt the rampant sale of unauthorized lottery and housie tickets, as well as the illegal collection of donations, which he said had become a widespread issue, particularly in the state capital.
Terming the resolution ‘relevant’, Mein stated that the government has already instructed deputy commissioners to enforce existing laws more rigorously.
“Illegal gambling has ruined many families in the state, with people losing their hard-earned money in the hope of profit. Laws are already in place, and law enforcement agencies have arrested many involved in such activities,” Mein said.
He assured that the BJP-led government in the state was committed to tackling the issue, emphasising that only a goal-oriented administration could effectively put an end to it.
Mein also urged lawmakers to spread public awareness about the harmful effects of illegal gambling and forced donations, stressing the need to develop civic responsibility.
“We must educate people and instill a sense of civic duty to eradicate such practices,” he added, while requesting Waii to withdraw the resolution.
During the discussion, senior BJP leader Pani Taram highlighted that while many organisations in the state claim to collect donations for noble causes, they often set fixed amounts, effectively turning them into extortion rather than voluntary contributions.
Earlier, Waii suggested that if illegal gambling could not be controlled, the government should consider legalising it to generate revenue.
Mein, however, stated that the government would study the pros and cons before making any decision on legalisation. He reiterated that all steps to curb the issue would be taken in consultation with the members of the house.
Later, Waii withdrew the resolution. PTI