Central government action against online betting websites

The central government has intensified its crackdown on illegal online betting and gambling websites. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has blocked 242 illegal betting websites and their associated links in a single day. Under the Online Gaming Act, which came into force in October 2025, nearly 7,800 to 8,000 illegal gaming and betting platforms have been shut down across the country so far. Authorities have noted that many of these platforms are operated from abroad and divert revenue overseas without coming under the tax net.

Meanwhile, doctors have raised serious concerns over the growing impact of online betting on mental health. According to medical experts, betting apps lure students and unemployed youth with promises of easy money, pushing them into debt and severe psychological stress. Doctors warn that financial losses through betting are leading to depression and, in some cases, suicides. Health professionals stress that strict action against such platforms is essential, while urging young people to stay cautious and avoid online betting and gambling.