Tourism: Jogi puts his money on casinos

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Ajit Jogi wants to introduce casinos in his state to attract tourists.‘‘We plan to project Chhattisgar...

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Ajit Jogi wants to introduce casinos in his state to attract tourists.

‘‘We plan to project Chhattisgarh as the most favoured tourist destination and casinos are going to be a big attraction,’’ said Jogi. But unlike Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh, who had to abort his plan following strong public reaction, Jogi favours a ‘‘public debate’’ for approval.

Jogi said that Kawardha, a historic town 140 km from Raipur, was an ideal place to start the state’s first casino. ‘‘The government will call open offers from interested parties to take up the business, ’’ he told The Indian Express.

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Kawardha has seen an increase in tourist flow in the recent months. Yogeshwar Raj Singh, area MLA and scion of the local royal family, has converted the Kawardha palace into a hotel complex.

‘‘I have discussed the idea with Singh and he has agreed,’’ said Jogi. He said his proposal will be accepted by the people as Chhattisgarh is a new state. The field will be left wide open for the private sector with the government only ensuring that the rules are being followed. Bhilai is another town which the Jogi government finds suitable for the venture.

Madhya Pradesh, before its bifurcation, had proposed the opening of casinos in a few cities but the plan was dropped because of social and political pressures. Last year, Himachal Pradesh considered permitting casinos at Parwanoo town but the plan was dropped fearing criticism.