The cabinet had, earlier this year, resolved to shift the offshore casino vessels from the Mandovi river to seaward anchorage at the Aguada bay within 15 days, after a note moved by the advocate general warned that casinos 'may cause navigational problems to barges and also spoil the natural beauty of the area'.

The offshore casino lobby moved the high court against the cabinet decision.

Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar had earlier accused the government of wilfully delaying action against the offshore casino industry.

'When an NOC is not valid, anyone going on these ships is risking their life. Who will take responsibility in case any accident happens?' the former chief minister said.