India enacts law banning online gambling, protecting users

NEW DELHI: Indian parliament approved a comprehensive law banning online gambling after official data revealed that 450 million people lost a total of $2.3 billion annually through gambling apps.

The new legislation targets platforms offering card games, poker, and fantasy sports, including the country’s popular domestic fantasy cricket apps.

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According to the Indian government, about one-third of the country’s population suffered financial losses due to online gambling.

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, passed by both houses late Thursday, makes it illegal to offer, promote or fund such gambling activities.

Violators face penalties including up to five years in prison.

The government said the bill aims to tackle addiction, financial hardship, and social problems triggered by deceptive gaming platforms that lure users with false promises of quick riches.

While India’s gaming industry remains one of the world’s largest, the law exempts e-sports and educational games, which authorities say will be encouraged as part of the digital economy.

The Indian Prime Minister stated that the legislation will support e-sports and online social gaming while protecting society from the damaging consequences of online money-based games.

Industry representatives called for regulation and taxation instead of a broad ban, warning that the crackdown might push users towards illegal offshore gambling sites.

However, supporters argue that the social harm linked to online betting justifies the strict approach.

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Government officials pointed out that the rapid growth of gambling platforms has caused widespread addiction, financial ruin and even suicide. They also said online betting has connections to fraud, money laundering and terrorism financing.