In a recent ruling that may influence the legal approach to online betting and gaming in India, the Allahabad High Court has underlined the need for updated and effective legislation to regulate online gambling. The court observed that the Public Gambling Act of 1867, a colonial-era law, is no longer adequate to deal with the complexities of virtual betting and gaming platforms operating across the country.
Petition Highlights Legal Gaps
As reported by ETV Bharat, the observations were made during the hearing of a petition filed by Imran Khan and others from Agra, seeking cancellation of criminal proceedings initiated under the Public Gambling Act. The petition contested the legality of the charge sheet dated December 27, 2022, and the summoning order issued on May 23, 2023, by a Judicial Magistrate in Agra.
The FIR, registered at Mantola Police Station, Agra, alleged that the petitioners were involved in an online betting operation from their residence. Police reportedly acted on a tip-off and recovered a tablet allegedly used for online betting. The accused were not apprehended at the time.
Allahabad High Court Calls for Stronger Laws to Curb Online Gambling and Betting
