Gambling is one of the most pleasurable pasttimes. It is built in human nature and has been in India since time immemorial. Whether you toss a coin, bet money oncricket, etc. your skills and chances are put upfront. Indeed, itrefers to taking part in games and activities in which valuable items or money is risked to win money, especially on internet in games like poker, blackjack, สล็อต etc.
India’s stance on Gambling
Online Betting/gambling isillegal and unregulated industry in most of Indian states. Gambling has been mentioned in the Seventh schedule of Indian Constitution and can be found in II part of state list. In simpler terms,state governments can regulate and control betting and gambling activities in their respective states. For instance, adoptionof the Public Gambling Act,1867 by majority of states.
- The legality of games is categorized in two broad areas. Whether the game is a ‘game of chances’ or a ‘game of skills.’ Game of chance likepicking numbers are illegal whereas games involving skills such as critical thinking capacity, etc. are legal.
- Under the Public Gambling Act,1976- online gambling and land-based casinos are legalonly in Goa, Nagaland, Sikkim and Daman.
- Sikkim and Nagaland havealso legalizede-gaming (game of chances)
However, online gambling is a grey area layered with complexity which makes it difficult to overcome the loopholes.
Legalization scenario of Gambling
Gambling is a double-edged sword i.e., while highly advantageous for economic development, its underlying behavioral impacts are well known. Primary argument made by those who support legalization of gambling is increase in tax revenue, promotion of tourism industry and creation of employment opportunities. On the other hand, opponentsworry about dangerous consequences like addiction, money laundering and corruption.
Moreover, surge in dependence of people on technology for entertainment has blurred the distinction between online gaming and gambling. As per a published report, India’s gaming user basesurpassed 365 million in March 2020. Many researchers believe that gaming could be a possible “gateway” to online gambling.Despite the questioned morality, its legalization would bring tremendous benefits for Indian Business industry.
Conclusion
The major drawback faced by this ‘sin industry’ is that laws are not in pace with contemporary gaming trends. For instance, the Bombay Gambling Prevention Act,1867 and the Information Technology Act,2000 does not includeamendments regarding moderngambling ways, like online casinos. To reap the benefits, laws are needed to be revamped and regulated for its operation and creating social awareness.
