India Cracks Down on Illegal Online Betting, Blocks 22 Sites

In an unprecedented move, the Indian government has initiated a major crackdown on online betting.

A total of 22 apps and websites have been identified and blocked for operating without legal sanction.

This decisive action underscores India’s commitment to enforcing gambling laws and protecting the integrity of its digital ecosystem.

As the landscape of online gambling tightens in India, players and operators alike are urged to adhere to the new regulations for a compliant and secure betting environment.

The Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has taken a firm stance against unauthorized online betting, issuing blocking orders against 22 betting apps and websites. While the full list of the affected operators remains undisclosed, MeitY has confirmed the inclusion of Mahadev Book and Reddyannaprestopro in the blockade.

In response to findings from the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) investigation into illegal betting app syndicates, MeitY has acted to disrupt their operations. The ED’s raids in Chhattisgarh have uncovered illegal activities by Mahadev Book, leading to the apprehension of several individuals, including police associate Bhim Singh Yadav, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Electronics and Information Technology, pointed out that local government had the jurisdiction to recommend the closure of such illicit sites under Section 69A of the IT Act. However, with no action from the state, MeitY intervened after the ED’s request.

Amidst these enforcement actions, India has introduced a significant tax rate increase for online betting. Effective from October 1, a uniform 28% turnover tax is now imposed on all forms of online gambling, including casinos and horse betting. This rate, established by the Goods and Services Tax Council (GST), is calculated on the total value of bets, marking a shift to a turnover-based taxation system. The new tax structure prompted Super Group, the operator behind Betway, to exit the Indian market.

2023 marks a year of intensified regulatory measures within the Indian online gambling sector. In addition to the tax revisions, January saw the publication of new regulations aiming to ensure that online games do not violate existing laws. The government has also suggested the formation of self-regulatory bodies within the gaming industry, focusing on player protection, addiction prevention, financial crime deterrence, and the safeguarding of minors.

These developments signal a strengthened oversight by Indian authorities, highlighting their resolve to combat unauthorized online gambling activities and establish a regulated environment for legal betting practices.

Tags: #IndiaBettingBan #IllegalBettingApps #MeitY #EnforcementDirectorate #OnlineBettingTax #IndianOnlineGamblingRegulations