Police in the Indian state of Delhi are facing a difficult moral dilemma after raiding and shutting down two illegal high roller casinos this month.
According to the India Times, the casinos were operating out of the plush neighbourhoods of Sainik Farms and Vasant Kunj and attracted clientele betting as much as US$160,000 per hand and above.
However, among the 24 people arrested at one of the properties – which boasted five roulette tables and three blackjack tables in the basement of a house – were a number of players closely connected with well-known and well-respected families, potentially opening a Pandora’s box for authorities.
Unlike the smaller casino busts police make from time to time, these high roller casinos are well-oiled machines that attract only the very best local clientele including Gurgaon-based businessman and accountants – most arriving in Lamborghinis, Ferraris and Mercedes.
“The casinos were not open for all,” police said. “Only those referred by someone already known to the owner could play the game. The confirmation about invites would come at the last hour and invitees would be given a secret code, which they were supposed to reveal at farmhouse entrance. Attendants at the entrance would be provided names and car numbers of each player in advance.”
Casino gaming in India is only allowed in Goa, Sikkim, Daman and Diu, however the thriving underground casinos of Delhi and the stature of its clients have some wondering whether it would be best to legalize the industry in Delhi as well.
Delhi’s casino “business” was allegedly started by 32-year-old Vinit Dua, whose father is a prominent businessman in New Delhi.
