India’s Supreme Court has agreed to examine a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) calling for a comprehensive ban on illegal betting apps across the country. The plea also demands stricter regulation of online gaming and fantasy sports platforms, which the petitioner argues operate under the guise of skill-based gaming.

The case highlights concerns over the social and financial consequences of unregulated online betting. According to the petitioner, these platforms are responsible for serious harm to vulnerable populations. The PIL argues that betting is inherently a game of chance, not skill, and therefore should fall under existing gambling prohibitions in many Indian states under the Public Gambling Act, 1867.

The petitioner emphasised the absence of uniform federal legislation regulating online betting and gaming in India. He maintains that without central regulation, states are left with inconsistent or inadequate oversight, allowing illegal apps to proliferate unchecked.

This is not the first time India’s top court has weighed in on complexities of its gambling sector. The petition comes shortly after the Supreme Court began hearing arguments around the taxation of gambling and so-called games of skill.

Good to know: The First Information Report  referenced in the petition includes 25 celebrities, cricketers and influencers accused of misleading the public through endorsements of betting apps

The PIL calls on the Supreme Court to compel the Government to enact a comprehensive legal framework to control online betting, fantasy sports, and gaming platforms. It also underlines the role of celebrity influencers in normalising potentially harmful behaviour through high-visibility endorsements.

The case is expected to raise broader questions around digital consumer protection, advertising ethics and the legal distinction between gambling and games of skill.

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