India Blocks 300 Illegal Betting Platforms

India has intensified its action against unlawful online gambling by blocking about 300 websites and mobile applications, pushing the total number of restricted platforms to nearly 8,400. Authorities said the move forms part of a broader effort to curb unauthorised betting and strengthen oversight of digital gaming activities.

The latest enforcement targets a wide range of services linked to illegal gambling. These include sports betting portals, online casinos offering games such as slots and roulette, platforms with live dealer tables, and betting exchanges that operate as peer-to-peer marketplaces. Officials also acted against “satta” and “matka” networks, along with real-money gaming apps offering card-based and casino-style games.

Expanded crackdown under new gaming law

Officials noted that a significant share of the total blocked platforms were restricted after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act came into force in August 2025. The legislation was introduced to regulate the digital gaming ecosystem while addressing concerns linked to online money games.

The law imposes a comprehensive ban on games involving monetary stakes, covering games of chance, skill, and hybrid formats. It also bars advertising, promotion, and facilitation of such activities, while restricting financial transactions tied to these platforms. Banks and payment systems are prohibited from processing payments associated with banned services.

Authorities said the government’s stance is rooted in concerns about social and economic harm. “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,” the government had earlier said.

Enforcement powers and penalties tightened

The regulatory framework relies on multiple legal provisions to enforce restrictions. Section 69A of the Information Technology Act allows authorities to block access to unlawful websites and applications. Updated intermediary rules introduced in April 2023 require online platforms to prevent the spread of illegal content.

Additional provisions under criminal law impose penalties for unlawful economic activities and unauthorised betting operations. Offenders may face imprisonment ranging from one year to several years, along with financial penalties. Separate rules also penalise advertising of illegal gaming services, with stricter consequences for repeat violations.

Authorities have also flagged broader risks associated with certain platforms raising national security concerns.

Focus shifts to safer gaming ecosystem

While enforcing restrictions on money-based gaming, the government is also promoting segments considered legitimate, such as esports and online social gaming. Plans include the creation of a national-level Online Gaming Authority tasked with classifying permissible games and ensuring compliance with regulations.

The body will also oversee a grievance system for users and establish safeguards against prohibited activities. Officials said these measures aim to support innovation while maintaining accountability across the sector.

Health concerns remain another driver behind the crackdown. The World Health Organisation recognises gaming disorder as a condition marked by impaired control over gaming habits and continuation despite harmful consequences.

Estimates presented in Parliament suggest that hundreds of millions of users have been negatively affected by such platforms, with financial losses running into tens of thousands of crores of rupees.

Source:

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