Indian Government Considers Action Against Offshore Betting Apps Amid Rising Popularity
Centre Weighs Action Against Prediction Market Apps Amid Rise In Election, IPL Betting
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The Indian Ministry of Electronics and IT is exploring measures against offshore prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, which are being used for betting on elections and sporting events, despite existing bans. New regulations under the Online Gaming Act will take effect in May 2026.
- 01The Indian government is monitoring the use of offshore prediction market apps for betting.
- 02Kalshi and Polymarket are currently banned under Indian online gaming laws.
- 03Users are accessing these platforms via virtual private networks (VPNs), complicating enforcement.
- 04The Online Gaming Act, effective from May 1, 2026, aims to regulate online gaming activities.
- 05The government is seeking to differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate VPN users.
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The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeiTY) in India is considering action against offshore prediction market platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket, which have gained popularity among Indian users for betting on election outcomes and major sporting events like the Indian Premier League (IPL). IT Secretary S. Krishnan stated that the government has been tracking these platforms, which are banned under current online gaming regulations, yet are still accessible through virtual private networks (VPNs). The government has recently notified rules under the Online Gaming Act, set to take effect on May 1, 2026, which aims to regulate online gaming activities. Krishnan mentioned the challenges posed by VPNs, noting that distinguishing between legitimate and illegitimate users is complex. He emphasized that action can be taken against foreign platforms offering services to Indian users if reported to the ministry, as the Online Gaming Act possesses extra-territorial jurisdiction.
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The potential regulation of offshore prediction market apps could affect how Indian users engage in online betting, possibly reducing access to these platforms.
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