Dehradun, Mar 7: The Government of Uttarakhand has approved the Uttarakhand Public Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026, paving the way for stricter legal action against people involved in gambling in public places and those operating gambling dens in the state.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the state cabinet on Friday. The bill will be introduced in the upcoming session of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly for passage.
Once enacted, the proposed law will replace provisions currently governed by the colonial-era Public Gambling Act, 1867, which prescribes relatively minor penalties for gambling in public places and for running gambling houses.
According to officials, the new bill proposes significantly stricter punishment for gambling-related offences.
Individuals found gambling in public places such as streets or lanes may face simple imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to Rs 5,000, or both.
Organising gambling activities inside a house may attract imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to Rs 10,000. Running a gambling den could lead to imprisonment of up to five years along with a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh, or both.
The proposed legislation also contains provisions targeting organised or syndicate-style gambling operations. Those found operating such activities may face imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines that could go up to Rs 10 lakh.
Officials said the bill aims to modernise the legal framework and strengthen enforcement against gambling and betting activities in the state.
The government believes the new legislation will act as a strong deterrent against illegal gambling and organised betting networks across Uttarakhand.
