Exploring the industry framework before dipping into online betting is critical to ensure that you don’t break the law and avoid being penalized. India has a complex iGaming landscape, where games of chance have traditionally remained prohibited since the mid-19th century. As the digital sector is evolving, online bookmakers are becoming one of the most popular entertainment options in the country, especially during loud IPL contests. In 2025, gambling is a state subject in the Indian Constitution, meaning that regional governments have the right to control the sector independently. Check some peculiarities to discover what’s legal in the country and eliminate uncertainty when engaging in this high-risk pastime.
The Rise of Betting and Fantasy Sport
For decades, the clear differentiation of games of chance vs games of skill has been affecting the Indian gambling market. Activities based on luck remain strictly prohibited until now, but those involving strategies are accessible to locals. The rise of fantasy sports has been witnessed in recent years: this entertainment allows users to gather virtual teams and earn points depending on athletes’ performance in real-life competitions. Unlike traditional betting opportunities, where the outcome is completely based on chance, fantasy sports include skills and knowledge necessary for success.
In 2025, digital gambling regulations are still unclear. The government is attempting to create a solid legal framework to guide players and operators, but this aspect is still under discussion. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 prohibits related activities, but unsurprisingly, there is no information about the digital sector. This fact creates a loophole for service providers and customers.
The Grey Areas of Online Betting
The popularity of digital sports wagering has skyrocketed in recent years. Physical betting shops are illegal in India, but as mentioned, the valid document regulating the industry doesn’t cover the online sector. Hence, virtual bookmakers fall into the legal grey zone in the country. There are no laws prohibiting Indian residents from joining offshore operators, and millions take advantage of this opportunity. Loyal cricket fans often select the 1xBet IPL official site, which has no restrictions for providing services in the jurisdiction.
It’s worth noting that legal peculiarities depend on the state. In regions like Maharashtra and Telangana, all wagering-related activities are restricted. On the contrary, Sikkim and Goa have already legalized betting, providing access to local bookmakers. Many other states neither ban nor regulate the digital industry, leaving players and operators uncertain about the legal implications. In general, users desiring to try this entertainment should discover regional laws to ensure that they don’t break rules.
Regulatory Compliance and Licensing
Unlike many other countries that have already established a clear gambling framework, India doesn’t have strict regulations and, more importantly, an authority supervising the sector. There’s no national gambling licensing system, which creates complexities with compliance with standards. While many offshore bookmakers entering the Indian market adhere to international requirements, including transparency, consumer protection, and enhanced digital security, there are no specific laws that touch on this aspect.
The lack of local controlling bodies creates disputes on whether online betting is safe for customers. In 2025, authorities are still working on developing a clearer framework, so significant updates are anticipated in the near future. Implementing a nationwide gambling regulation is costly and complicated; it may take a while for the Indian government to accept the final draft. However, the state already has examples of countries where this system works efficiently, so there’s a chance to consider others’ experiences.
Challenges of Unclear Industry Regulations
The current landscape of the betting sector in India is partially beneficial for punters. Users can access offshore bookmakers without potential penalties and enjoy wagering on the IPL or other major tournaments without limitations. However, this concept still brings risks that should be considered and addressed:
- Player protection and consumer rights. As India doesn’t have a regulatory body, users may experience difficulties with dispute resolution and face a lack of consumer protection in a high-risk environment.
- Money laundering and other criminal activities. Multiple instances of fraud occur in the iGaming sector, as operators hold a lot of customer details. In the legal grey zone, users are more vulnerable to digital threats.
- Loss of revenue for states. Regions that don’t regulate the online betting sector lack industry taxation, which often forms a significant part of revenue. Legalizing wagering may result in a better socioeconomic climate.
- Judicial overload. Due to the unclear differentiation of games or chance vs luck, courts are often full of claims regarding the legality of specific online betting platforms or fantasy sports apps.
Considering the explosive growth of the digital betting sector, Indian authorities are projected to take steps towards regulating the sector. Unified national legislation may eliminate the lack of clarity, guiding both operators and their customers. Licensing and monitoring, like in countries with well-developed frameworks, will help make the industry more controlled and prevent punters from potential negative consequences. According to reports, over 130 million residents in India regularly engage in gambling-related activities, and the rise of national leagues, complemented by the broader accessibility of online bookmakers, boosts the popularity of this entertainment.
