Local residents in the Indian state of Goa could soon be barred from entering the region’s casinos if the local government approves new regulations.

Goa is one of only three Indian states that permit casino gambling and its 15 gaming operations – four of which are located on boats on the Mandovi river –collectively attract around 15k visitors per day. But that figure is likely to fall if new legislative proposals win government approval.

The Times of India recently quoted home secretary Sanjiv Gadkar saying his department had approved draft rules that would bar local residents from entering casinos, while also barring entry to anyone under the age of 21 years, regardless of their place of residency.

Under the proposed rule changes, anyone wishing to enter a Goa casino would have to provide proof of identity and residence in the form of a passport or other government-issued ID. Only then would the state issue a ‘tourist permit’ that would authorize casino access. Gadkar said the changes would not apply to Goa residents who work at the casinos.