India's Online Betting Ban Faces Implementation Challenges Ahead of IPL 2026
IPL 2026: India Banned Betting. The Internet Didn’t Listen | EXCLUSIVE
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Despite the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025 banning online betting in India, platforms like 1xBet and Parimatch remain accessible. Experts argue that ineffective enforcement and lack of technological measures hinder the ban's effectiveness, especially during high-stakes events like the Indian Premier League (IPL).
- 01The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025 made online betting illegal in India.
- 02Over 8,400 betting websites have been blocked, yet many remain accessible.
- 03Experts emphasize the need for improved enforcement and technological measures.
- 04Financial Intelligence Unit's role is crucial in tracking and disrupting illegal betting networks.
- 05International cooperation is necessary to tackle offshore betting platforms targeting Indian users.
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The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025, enacted in August 2025, aims to combat online betting in India by banning it outright. Despite this, platforms such as 1xBet, Parimatch, and Betwinner continue to operate freely, accessible to users through various means. Experts like Rahul Mehra, a Supreme Court lawyer, criticize the lack of effective implementation, stating that while the law exists, enforcement is weak, leading to a culture of non-compliance. Nachiketa Vajpayee, another legal expert, calls for a systematic approach to dismantle betting networks and emphasizes the importance of the Financial Intelligence Unit in tracking suspicious transactions. He advocates for a coordinated effort between central and state agencies to effectively tackle illegal betting, especially during high-profile events like the Indian Premier League (IPL). The current situation reflects a paradox where a robust legal framework exists, but ineffective enforcement allows illegal activities to persist. Without visible and consistent action, the ban risks being perceived as mere symbolism rather than a deterrent.
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The ongoing accessibility of illegal betting platforms undermines the government's efforts to curb online gambling, potentially leading to increased participation in illegal activities during major events like the IPL.
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