Online Gambling Growth in India Shows Need for Progressive Law
India's online gambling industry is worth $930 million and is expected to grow to $112 billion in 2025. India has one of the youngest populations in the world.
The gambling industry in India is regulated on a state and national level. The Public Gambling Act of 1867, The Prize Competition Act, 1955 and The Information Technology Act 2000 are the main pieces of legislation that govern the gambling in the country.
Sikkim is the only Indian state that has implemented clear online gambling regulations. The Information Technology Act of 2000 can be applied to online casinos. Only Sikkim and Goa have land-based casinos, which are limited to gambling establishments. Online Gambling Growth in India Shows Need for Progressive Law.
India's confusing gambling laws are harmful to the country's economy. Online gambling industry could generate millions of dollars for Indian coffers. India has no authority to protect players' interests and resolve possible disputes between players and casino operators. Regulating the online gambling will curb illicit gambling activities and boost the economy, as well as estimate the percentage of people affected by gambling problems.
Andhra Pradesh recently published an Ordinance that will never regulate the online gambling industry. If a single state takes steps toward regulating the industry, many others will follow its example.