Government takes strict action on online gambling and betting apps in the country, more than 300 websites and apps blocked

Shiv Shankar Savita- The Central Government has taken a major action to curb online gambling and betting networks operating illegally in the country. The government has blocked about 300 websites and mobile apps related to illegal online betting with immediate effect. This action is against those platforms which were causing economic and social harm by trapping the youth. With this new move, the total number of illegal betting and gambling websites blocked so far has increased to approximately 8,400. Of these, about 4,900 websites had already been removed after the implementation of the Online Gaming Act. According to officials, this block list includes a wide variety of platforms. This includes online sports betting websites, apps offering casino games like slot machines and roulette, live dealer platforms, and peer-to-peer (P2P) betting exchanges. Not only this, online incarnations of Satta and Matka networks already running in the country and real-money card games running without license have also come under the scanner of this action.

Action has been taken under the Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill, 2025

This entire action has been taken under the ‘Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill, 2025’ recently passed by the Parliament, which was approved on August 21, 2025. The main objective of this law is to protect users from risky real-money gaming. Under this new rule, which will come into effect from October 1, 2025, strict punishment has been provided for those offering or promoting real money games like poker, rummy and fantasy sports. Those found guilty may face imprisonment of up to three years along with heavy fines.

Online Gaming Authority of India will be formed

Under this law, ‘Online Gaming Authority of India’ will be formed. This authority will monitor the sector, promote safe e-sports and enforce restrictions on stake-based games. The government intends to prevent addiction, wastage of money and social problems caused by gaming platforms that mislead people with false promises of making quick money. This step reflects the government’s commitment to protecting families while taking the digital economy in a secure and constructive direction.