The Indian government has intensified its crackdown on illegal online gambling and betting platforms, blocking 300 websites and mobile applications in its latest action. The move is part of a broader effort to curb unauthorised online money gaming and strengthen regulatory oversight across the digital ecosystem.
Wide net targets betting, casinos and exchanges
The latest enforcement drive has targeted a wide range of platforms linked to illegal gambling activities. These include online sports betting websites, digital casinos offering games such as slots, roulette and live dealer tables, and betting exchanges that function as peer-to-peer marketplaces.
According to PTI, authorities have also taken action against satta and matka networks, along with real-money gaming apps that offer card and casino-style games. The aim is to dismantle both organised platforms and smaller networks operating outside the legal framework.
Sources confirmed that the 300 newly blocked platforms are part of a much larger list. In total, around 8,400 illegal gambling and betting websites and applications have been blocked to date.
Majority of blocks after new gaming law
Data shared by sources shows that nearly 4,900 of the total blocked platforms were restricted after the introduction of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. This indicates a sharp rise in enforcement activity following the implementation of the new law.
The government has maintained that it is committed to building a safe, transparent and accountable online gaming environment. The recent actions align with this objective and reflect a stricter regulatory approach.
Online money games fully prohibited
The 2025 law introduces a comprehensive ban on online money games in India. This includes games of chance, games of skill and any hybrid formats involving monetary stakes.
The law also prohibits the advertising, promotion and facilitation of such games. Financial transactions linked to these platforms are restricted, and banks and payment systems are barred from processing related payments.
Authorities have been given powers to block access to illegal platforms under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000. This has enabled quicker enforcement and large-scale blocking of websites and applications.
Strict penalties for violations
The Act outlines stringent penalties for individuals and entities involved in offering or supporting online money games. Offenders may face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to ₹1 crore ($106,945), or both.
Repeat offences attract harsher punishment. A second or subsequent conviction can lead to a minimum of three years in prison, extendable up to five years, along with fines ranging from ₹1 crore ($106,945) to ₹2 crore ($213,890).
Advertising such platforms is also a punishable offence. Violators may face up to two years of imprisonment or fines of up to ₹50 lakh ($53,472). Repeat violations carry stricter penalties.
Focus on esports and social gaming
While the law imposes a blanket ban on money-based games, it also aims to promote legitimate segments such as esports and online social gaming. The government has introduced provisions to support innovation and growth in these areas.
A key feature of the framework is the establishment of a national-level Online Gaming Authority. This body will be responsible for classifying and registering permissible games, determining whether a game qualifies as a money game, and issuing operational guidelines.
The authority will also manage a grievance redressal system for users and ensure safeguards against prohibited gaming activities.
Continued enforcement expected
Officials indicate that enforcement actions will continue as authorities monitor digital platforms and financial networks. The focus remains on identifying new illegal operators and preventing re-entry of blocked platforms.
The latest crackdown highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate the online gaming sector and restrict unauthorised betting activities across India.
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