The COVID-19 has caused international chaos, both on the health as well as the economic front. Apart from making a devastating impact on lives, it has led to the shutdown of industries worldwide. One of the worst affected by this is the casino industry. Following travel restrictions post lockdowns, casinos in most parts of the world have been closed, which is resulting in massive losses for casinos.
The Indian state of Goa has been under lockdown since mid-March. Goa is one of the least affected states in India with only 7 positive COVID-19 cases and no fresh positive case since 4th April. Despite the state being COVID-19 free, the Goan government doesn’t want to take any chance and has decided to extend the lockdown of business establishments, including casinos, night clubs, schools etc.
On Saturday, Health Minister Jose D’Sa ordered to extend the closer of establishments like casinos, schools, nightclubs, etc., until further notice. Issued under the provisions of the Epidemic Act, 1987, the order comes a day after the Union government permitted local-area shops to open for business.
The latest order indicates that casinos in Goa are likely to remain closed for a long time. The lockdown has already caused big losses for casinos in the state. With the lockdown being extended, it is going to result in a torrid time for Goa’s casino industry and people working in this industry.
Talking to PokerGuru about the lockdown extension, Manish J. Adnani, Business Head (Poker) Delta Corp., said,“Nations Health first, so definitely we need to adhere to whatever is required from that perspective.”
PokerBaazi LIVE poker room operator – Chirag Sodha, who recently grabbed headlines for winning Adda52’s 1 Crore GTD Full House for his career-best score of INR 25 Lac, said, “It’s definitely not the best news, but I totally agree with the lockdown extension for places like casinos. It’s in the interest of the people and is a necessary step in ensuring the safety of everyone across the state,”
Also Read: Chirag Sodha On His Full House Win, Poker Life, His Run After Lockdown & More!