India has passed a major law banning online gambling, targeting games like poker, card games, and fantasy sports; however, offshore gambling sites are still allowed.
The legislation, called the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, criminalizes the promotion and funding of money-based games, with penalties of up to five years in prison. This law only targets online gambling operators located inside the country and does not address offshore gambling sites.
The government says the law aims to prevent gambling addiction, financial hardship, and social harm caused by misleading gaming platforms. While online operators in India are banned, exceptions are made for e-sports and educational games, which will be promoted as part of India’s digital economy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the law’s dual purpose: encouraging safe digital recreation while protecting society from the dangers of online betting. Despite industry calls for regulation over prohibition, officials cited widespread financial losses, addiction, and links to criminal activity, including fraud and terrorism financing, as justification for the ban.
Is India Going To Ban Offshore Gambling?
There is no indication that India will try to enforce a ban on offshore gambling sites. The new legislation is only directed towards domestic online gambling sites and does nothing to criminalize the act of gambling online with an offshore operator.
Legal offshore gambling sites have been accepting players from India for decades, and today, some will even accept bets in Rupees (INR). However, most players are drawn in by the acceptance of popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, and others. Players will also find bigger bonuses when depositing with crypto, alongside the fastest transaction processing times available.
Does India Have Domestic Casinos?
Yes, India does have several domestic casinos, but they are limited to a few states due to the country’s complex gambling laws. Tourists can find domestic casino locations in Goa, Sikkim, and Daman. You can also find casino cruises departing from ports in Maharashtra.
How Does The New India Gambling Bill Affect Domestic Casinos?
The new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill primarily targets online gambling and real-money gaming platforms, but its ripple effects could also indirectly influence domestic casinos. Here’s how:
- Increased scrutiny: The bill may prompt tighter oversight of all gambling-related activities, including physical casinos, particularly regarding concerns about money laundering and fraud.
- Shift in consumer behavior: With online options banned, some users may turn to legal domestic casinos for real-money gaming, potentially boosting foot traffic in permitted regions.
- Advertising restrictions: The law prohibits the promotion of real-money games, which may impact marketing strategies for online or hybrid casino platforms.