The Indian government has intensified its crackdown on illegal online betting and gambling platforms, blocking access to 242 websites. This recent action brings the total number of blocked sites to 7,800, marking a significant escalation in enforcement efforts following the passage of the Online Gaming Act in August 2025.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) spearheaded the initiative to block these illegal betting and gambling website links. Government officials have stated that this decisive action underscores the government's commitment to protecting users, especially the youth, from the financial and social harms associated with these platforms. The government's strategy involves shielding users from financial exploitation and the risks of gambling-related harm, while maintaining vigilance against new illegal sites.
The Online Gaming Act, officially titled "The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025," was enacted to ban all forms of real-money gaming (RMG) and its advertisements within India. This legislation imposes strict penalties, including potential jail terms of up to three years and fines reaching ₹1 crore, on individuals or entities offering real-money gaming services. The Act also prohibits banks from engaging with companies involved in such activities.
Beyond punitive measures, the Online Gaming Act envisions the establishment of an authority to promote esports and other social games. This authority will be responsible for formulating guidelines and standards for organizing and conducting such games. The government also intends to create training academies, research centers, and other institutions dedicated to advancing esports.
The blocking of these 242 websites comes after the real money gaming industry had already ceased operations in response to the impending legislation, which inadvertently led some users to turn to illegal and offshore operators. These operators often employ tactics such as "URL switching" to evade detection, making it challenging for authorities to maintain effective oversight. Even prior to the ban, studies indicated that illegal platforms were gaining traction by circumventing GST and offering minimal oversight compared to legitimate operators.
The government's move has been praised as a necessary step to curb addiction, financial ruin, and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms that often lure users with misleading promises of quick wealth. This action aligns with the government's broader objective of guiding the digital economy towards safe and constructive growth, while safeguarding families from the perils of unregulated online gambling. The seriousness of this issue is globally recognized, with many countries grappling with the challenges posed by online betting and gambling platforms.
