betting laws

India’s online gambling laws are intricate, shaped by historical legislation, state-specific rules, and ongoing court interpretations. The primary law governing gambling, the Public Gambling Act of 1867, doesn’t address online gambling due to its pre-internet origins, leading to ambiguity and varied enforcement across the country.

States have the autonomy to set their own gambling laws, which is why the answer to “Is online gambling legal in India?” depends on where you are. For example, Sikkim allows licensed online gambling, whereas Telangana and Tamil Nadu have banned it. Additionally, the Supreme Court distinguishes between games of skill and games of chance: skill-based games like poker and rummy are generally allowed, though some states still impose restrictions.

Recent court rulings have influenced the industry, such as the 2021 Karnataka High Court decision that protected skill-based games from prohibition. Meanwhile, the Law Commission of India has advocated for a regulatory approach to online gambling, arguing that a standardized framework could reduce illegal betting, address money laundering, and generate tax revenue.

So, is online gambling legal in India? While there is no straightforward answer, a better understanding of state-specific laws can help players stay informed and compliant. As the legal landscape evolves, India may move toward a unified regulatory system, potentially making online gambling safer and more accessible across the country.