India government continues crackdown on betting and casino websites

Across India, sports betting is generally prohibited, just like other forms of gambling. While some states consider exceptions for lottery or horse racing, regulations remain strict. India passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gambling Act 2025, effectively enhancing the restrictions for online gambling and sports betting, banning many platforms. The ongoing crackdown has intensified recently, after Indian authorities banned hundreds of sports betting and online casino platforms.

In the latest round against unauthorized sports betting and online casinos, the government in India imposed bans on approximately 300 websites and applications, local media outlets announced. According to the local authorities, the bans impacted online sports betting websites, as well as offshore casinos, all of which were targeting Indian residents and offered their services in violation of the regulatory framework in the country. Tapping into sports betting websites and applications, local residents had the option to wager on a range of tournaments, while online casinos granted access to highly addictive games such as slots, and classic games like roulette, baccarat and poker, among others. Besides online casinos and betting websites and apps, the ban impacted betting exchanges operating as peer-to-peer marketplaces. Local media reports suggest that the latest blocks have increased the total number of blocked betting and online casino websites to approximately 8,400. Equally as important, close to 5,000 of those websites have been added to the block list after India passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gambling Act last year. The prohibition of sports betting and gambling activities in India can result in significant implications for individuals found to be involved. From fines to imprisonment, the country's regulatory framework penalizes gamblers as well as organizers of gambling activities. Despite the sanctions and efforts by the local authorities, offshore online gambling and sports betting operators continue to reach players across India. While supporters of legalized gambling argue that tax revenue can be collected, opponents disagree, warning about the risks associated with the activity, such as financial and mental harm.