The Supreme Court of India has requested the central government’s input on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a nationwide ban on online gambling and betting platforms. This includes those operating under the guise of e-sports and social games, according to The Hindu.
Court Directions and Next Steps
A Bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan instructed the petitioner’s counsel to serve the PIL to government representatives. Additionally, the court asked Additional Solicitor General V.C. Bharathi to assist at the next hearing, scheduled in two weeks.
Petitioners Cite National Crisis
The PIL was filed by think tank Centre for Accountability and Systemic Change (CASC), which claims that online gambling has become a national crisis. It is causing social, economic, and psychological harm. The petition urges Union ministries—including Electronics and Information Technology, Information and Broadcasting, Finance, and Youth Affairs and Sports—to coordinate. They should do so under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025 to outlaw gambling disguised as entertainment.
The petition estimates that over 65 crore people in India play online games. They generate annual revenues exceeding Rs 1.8 lakh crore (US$21.6bn). It further claims that offshore operators owe more than Rs 2 lakh crore in unpaid taxes.
Respondents and Proposed Measures
The PIL names six respondents, including four Union ministries and app store operators Apple Inc. and Google India Pvt. Ltd. It seeks directions for the RBI, NPCI, and UPI platforms to block transactions for unregistered gaming apps. Additionally, it urges investigations through Interpol, the CBI, and the Enforcement Directorate.
Celebrity Endorsements Under Scrutiny
CASC also highlighted concerns over celebrity promotions of illegal gaming apps. They allege that these endorsements have fueled gambling addiction, fraud, and mental health issues.
