India Blocks 300 Illegal Gambling Platforms Nationwide

India has intensified its enforcement efforts against unauthorised online gambling operations, blocking approximately 300 websites and mobile applications in its latest crackdown. The action adds to a broader campaign that has now restricted close to 8,400 platforms across the country, according to official sources.

Authorities targeted a wide range of services operating outside the legal framework. These included sports betting sites, online casino platforms offering games such as slots and roulette, live dealer formats, and betting exchanges that enable peer-to-peer wagering. Enforcement measures also extended to “satta/matka” networks and applications offering real-money card and casino-style games.

The scale of the operation reflects continued government efforts to limit the reach of offshore and illegal operators, particularly those offering financial betting services to Indian users.

A significant portion of the blocked platforms were restricted after the introduction of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, which came into force following its passage in Parliament on August 21, 2025. Data indicates that nearly 4,900 websites and applications have been taken down since the law was enacted, pointing to a noticeable increase in enforcement activity over the past year.

The legislation introduced a wide-ranging prohibition on online money games, covering formats based on chance, skill, and hybrid structures involving financial stakes. It also restricts advertising, promotion, and facilitation of such platforms while preventing payment providers and banks from processing related transactions.

Government officials previously outlined the reasoning behind the law, stating: “This legislation is designed to curb addiction, financial ruin and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms that thrive on misleading promises of quick wealth. It reflects the Government’s resolve to safeguard families while guiding the digital economy towards safe and constructive growth.”

Authorities have relied on existing legal frameworks to carry out these actions, including provisions under the Information Technology Act that allow blocking access to websites. Section 69A of the law enables the government to restrict digital content deemed unlawful, supporting large-scale enforcement across platforms.

Officials have raised concerns about the broader risks associated with illegal gambling platforms. According to government findings, certain platforms have been used for activities linked to terror financing and illicit communication channels, which pose national security challenges.

The impact on users has also been highlighted in parliamentary discussions. Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Rajya Sabha that an estimated 45 crore individuals have been negatively affected by online money games, with losses exceeding ₹20,000 crore.

Health considerations have also shaped the policy response. The World Health Organisation recognises gaming disorder as a medical condition, defined by impaired control over gaming behaviour, prioritisation of gaming over daily activities, and continued engagement despite harmful consequences. This classification has been cited as part of the rationale for stricter oversight.

Additional legal measures reinforce the crackdown. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita includes provisions addressing unlawful economic activities and cybercrime, with penalties for unauthorised betting and gambling ranging from one to seven years of imprisonment, along with financial fines.

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Regulatory actions extend beyond blocking platforms. Authorities have issued repeated advisories to media outlets, advertisers, and influencers over recent years, warning against promoting illegal betting services. These notices aim to limit the visibility of such platforms and reduce user engagement driven by misleading advertising.

Tax and compliance frameworks also play a role in enforcement. Under the Integrated Goods and Services Tax Act, online gaming operators must register through a simplified system, with authorities empowered to direct intermediaries to block access to non-compliant services.

The 2025 law also introduces a framework to support permitted segments such as esports and non-monetary online gaming. Plans include establishing a national-level Online Gaming Authority responsible for classifying games, registering approved platforms, and managing user grievances.

Penalties for violations under the new framework remain stringent. Individuals and entities found operating or supporting illegal platforms may face imprisonment and fines, with harsher consequences for repeat offences. Advertising such services is also subject to penalties, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to regulation.

Officials have indicated that monitoring efforts will continue, with a focus on identifying new operators and preventing previously blocked platforms from reappearing. The latest measures demonstrate an ongoing effort to tighten oversight of India’s digital gaming environment and limit unauthorised betting activities.

Source:

Government blocks 300 ‘illegal’ gambling and betting platforms, thehindu.com, March 20, 2026