NewKerala.com

India Bans 300 Betting Sites, Blocks 8,400 in Major Online Gaming Crackdown

The Indian government has banned 300 websites and mobile applications involved in illegal online betting and gambling. This action brings the total number of blocked platforms to approximately 8,400, with a significant increase following the enactment of the Online Gaming Act. The legislation aims to protect citizens, particularly youth, from the financial and social harms of predatory gaming platforms. The government's crackdown reflects a global concern, with the WHO recognizing gaming disorder as a health condition.

Key Points: India Bans 300 Betting Platforms, Blocks 8,400 Sites

  • 300 websites & apps banned
  • 8,400 total platforms blocked
  • Action under Online Gaming Act
  • Targets betting, casinos, Satta networks
  • Aims to curb addiction and financial harm
2 min read

Government bans 300 betting and gambling platforms; 8,400 blocked so far under online gaming crackdown

Government cracks down on illegal online gambling, blocking 300 platforms and 8,400 sites total to protect youth and curb financial harm.

"reflects the Government's commitment to protect users especially youth - Government sources"

New Delhi, March 20

In a major crackdown on illegal gambling and betting platforms, the government on Friday banned 300 websites and mobile applications.

The blocked platforms include online sports betting sites, casino apps offering games like slots, roulette, and live dealer tables, as well as betting exchanges operating as peer-to-peer marketplaces. The action also targeted Satta/Matka networks and real-money card and casino gaming apps.

An official stated that around 8,400 such websites have been blocked so far, with the majority, approximately 4,900, taken down after the enactment of the Online Gaming Act.

Earlier this year, in January, the Centre blocked 242 illegal betting and gambling website links as part of increased enforcement actions following the passage of the Online Gaming Act, government sources said.

They said that action taken reflected the Government's commitment to protect users especially youth, and to curb financial and social harm caused by illegal online betting and gambling platforms.

President Droupadi Murmu had given her assent to The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, that was passed by Parliament in August last year.

The legislation marked a strong move to shield citizens from the menace of online money games while promoting and regulating other kinds of online games.

The legislation is designed to curb addiction, financial ruin and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms that thrive on misleading promises of quick wealth, a release said, adding that it reflects the Government's resolve to safeguard families while guiding the digital economy towards safe and constructive growth.

The seriousness of the issue is recognised globally. The World Health Organisation classifies gaming disorder as a health condition in its International Classification of Diseases, describing it as a pattern of play marked by loss of control, neglect of other daily activities, and persistence despite harmful consequences.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good move, but I hope this doesn't become a blanket ban on all skill-based games like rummy or poker. Regulation is needed, not prohibition. The focus should be on the predatory betting sites, not games of skill.
A
Aman W
Blocking 8,400 sites is a huge number! Shows how widespread this problem was. These platforms were advertising everywhere - during cricket matches, on social media. They made it look so easy to win. Glad something is being done.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has seen a family member struggle with this, I can't stress how important this is. It's not just about money; it destroys relationships and mental health. The WHO classifying it as a disorder says it all.
V
Vikram M
The law is good on paper. My only concern is enforcement. These sites often pop up again with different domain names. Need constant monitoring and cyber patrolling. Hope the authorities have a sustainable plan.
K
Kriti O
While I support the crackdown on illegal betting, I feel we also need better financial literacy and awareness programs in schools and colleges. Banning sites is one thing, changing the mindset that seeks 'quick money' is another.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50