New Delhi, Mar 20: The Centre has blocked around 300 websites and mobile applications allegedly involved in illegal gambling and betting activities, taking the total number of prohibited platforms to nearly 8,400, according to official sources.
The action targets a wide range of entities, including sports betting portals, online casino platforms offering games such as slots and roulette, live dealer services, betting exchanges operating as peer-to-peer marketplaces, as well as “satta/matka” networks and real-money gaming applications.
Sources said a significant portion of these platforms — estimated at around 4,900 — have been blocked following the implementation of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, which came into force last year.
The legislation, passed by Parliament on August 21, 2025, seeks to regulate online gaming while curbing unlawful betting and gambling operations.
Officials indicated that the crackdown is part of a broader effort to protect users from financial risks and deceptive practices often associated with such platforms.
“The move is aimed at safeguarding citizens from the harmful impact of unregulated online money games, while ensuring a safer digital ecosystem,” a government source said.
The government has maintained that illegal betting platforms often lure users with promises of quick financial gains, which can lead to addiction, economic distress and broader social consequences.
Authorities have also highlighted concerns around gaming addiction, noting that the World Health Organization classifies gaming disorder as a recognised health condition.
It is defined by a pattern of impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities, and continuation of gaming despite negative consequences.
Officials added that enforcement agencies will continue to monitor and take action against platforms found violating Indian laws, as part of ongoing efforts to regulate the rapidly growing online gaming sector.
