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Source: The post is based on the article “Illegal Betting: Government bans 22 Illegal betting apps” published in “The Hindu” on 9th November 2023
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued blocking orders against 22 illegal betting apps and websites, including the Mahadev online betting platform.
What is Online Betting?
Online betting or gambling means to use the internet to place bets and earn money. It is held in a virtual environment. This includes playing poker, casinos and sports betting.
What is the Legal Basis for regulation of Online Betting in India?
| Specifications | Details |
| Public Gambling Act of 1867 | 1. It is a Central law. It says that any gambling that involves the act of putting money or betting for money or any other equivalent act is illegal. 2. It prohibits running or operating public gaming houses. Any violation of the law under this act could attract a fine of Rs.200 or imprisonment of up to three months. 3. However, it is an old law and is ill-equipped to handle the challenges of digital casinos, online gambling and gaming. |
| Legal Basis for ban on Online Betting | A ban on online betting is issued under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act 2000. |
| State Jurisdiction | Gambling in India is largely a state subject under 7th Schedule of the Constitution. This means states are expected to create their own laws to regulate gambling in their jurisdictions. |
| State Laws | 1. States like Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh have adopted the Public Gambling Act with some amendments. 2. Other regions, like Goa, Sikkim, Daman, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, have drafted specific laws to regulate public gambling in their jurisdictions. 3. States like Telangana have banned all forms of online gaming and gambling through an amendment to The Telangana Gaming Act. |
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