Indian state moves to tighten anti-gambling laws with new bill
The Indian state of Bihar is preparing to introduce one of its toughest anti-gambling laws yet, with a proposed bill seeking jail terms, hefty fines and wider action against online betting, facilitators and advertisers.
The proposed Bihar Gambling (Prohibition) Bill is expected to be tabled during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the state legislature. If passed, it would make online gambling and betting criminal offences and significantly increase punishments for those found violating the law.
Punishment for repeated offenders
Under the draft legislation, first-time offenders could face imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh ($5,800). Repeat offenders would face even harsher consequences, including up to seven years in prison and fines of up to ₹10 lakh ($11,600).
The bill goes beyond targeting people who place bets. It also seeks to hold accountable those who help facilitate gambling operations. According to the proposal, individuals who allow their bank accounts or digital wallets to be used for gambling transactions could also face legal action. The legislation further gives authorities the power to prosecute those involved in promoting or advertising online gambling and betting platforms.
By widening the scope of enforcement, the Bihar government aims to disrupt the wider ecosystem that supports illegal gambling rather than focusing only on operators and bettors.
The move marks another step in the state’s hardline approach towards activities it considers socially harmful. Bihar has previously adopted one of India’s strictest prohibition policies on alcohol, and the proposed gambling legislation follows a similar enforcement-focused model.
The bill also reflects growing concern among state governments over the rapid expansion of online betting platforms and the ease with which users can access them through digital payment systems and mobile applications.
Aligning with centre’s oversight
Although gambling regulation in India largely falls under state jurisdiction, Bihar’s proposal is quite similar to the central government’s efforts to tighten oversight of illegal online betting and gambling activities.
In recent years, the central government has tightened its approach towards illegal betting and gambling by bringing in measures aimed at improving oversight of the online gaming sector. Bihar’s proposal goes a step further. Rather than focusing mainly on regulation, the state wants to crack down through tougher criminal penalties and wider enforcement powers.
If passed, the law can become one of the toughest state-level anti-gambling laws in India. It doesn’t just target those who run betting platforms, but also people who help facilitate gambling through payment channels or promote such services. By expanding the scope of the law, the government hopes to make it harder for illegal gambling networks to operate in the state.
The bill is currently awaiting debate in the Bihar legislature. If approved, it will provide law enforcement agencies with wider powers to investigate, prosecute and penalise gambling-related offences, particularly those involving online betting platforms that have grown rapidly across India in recent years.
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