Centre blocks 242 illegal betting and gambling website links - The Tribune
Summary
The Indian government has intensified its crackdown on illegal online betting and gambling, recently blocking 242 website links as part of increased enforcement actions following the passage of the Online Gaming Act. Government sources state that over 7,800 such websites have been taken down to date, demonstrating a commitment to protecting users, particularly youth, from the financial and social harms associated with these platforms. The Online Gaming Act, which received presidential assent in January 2025, aims to shield citizens from the risks of online money games while promoting responsible online gaming. The legislation addresses concerns about addiction, financial ruin, and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms, aligning with global recognition of gaming disorder as a health condition by the World Health Organization. The government emphasizes the Act’s balance between fostering the growth of the online gaming sector—including esports and educational games—and curbing harmful betting and gambling activities.
(Source:The Tribune)