Police in India has begun in a sign of presence to arrest members of an illegal, unlicensed syndicate. Individuals were caught redhanded, offering bets and services to the public.
India cracks down on illegal gambling in public with arrest across some states in rural areas. It is said, India is still a heaven for illegal gambling in rural areas. Reasons are simple.
In this article
- History of Indias Gambling and online sports betting
- What is holding India back from becoming transparent and compliant
- Progress and the future of Indias Gambling Authotities
What is holding India back from becoming transparent and compliant
India has a longstanding history of regional laws and recent legislative measures. A total 28 states are allowed to run various gambling operations. 13 of those are running goverment operated lotteries. But only a handful of Indias states can run sports betting. In 2023, India slapped a hefty 28% Goods and Services tax on Digital gaming markets, as the value of Indias Gaming market grew to a substantial 1.4 Billion USD. Implementing any sort of law and legislative are a different thing.
- Lack of Internet infrastructure
- Mobile phones – Allthought India produces huge amounts of the worlds existing mobile phones – it is estimated that India produces now up to 300 Million each year and is now second after China- and its mobile markets are deemed as saturated by up to 98%, practicality in its use remains low
- Corruption is a strong driver to cover and keep an eye closed on activities for many authorities.
- In many areas, the village or area is run by a tribal eldest, ruling with an iron fist, resulting in police work to become a difficult task
- Online gambling and accounting services in India have deep roots of distrust
- Low digital literacy and trust in good old cash
- Poor digital presence of infrastructure
- Banking branches are scars and run poo
Is online Gambling legal in India
India is however not alone with its mammoth task to crack down on unlicensed gambling in public. Introducing steady laws to control influx of unlicensed online casinos were a first step recently. However, the taxman and government are failing to penetrate the heart of Indias black online gambling markets. News on Indias Crack down on unlincensed gambling is a drop in the ocean only. More news on Responsible gambling
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Yes, online gambling is legal in India, but authorities have introduces laws to make it more transparent. Gambling regulations were introduced in 1867 with the Introduction of the Public Gambling Act. Now, over hundred years later, India is still trying to impose tax laws, and Responsible Gambling laws. Frame works are still in progress and in 2025, the historical laws and current bans and introductions are still clashing.
Regional authorities are playing a significant role in Indias failing crackdown on illegal gambling.
Mistrust and lack of digital infrastructure to provide secure exchange of funds.
Lack of literacy amongst people in rural areas.
Corruption and involvement of state officials.
