The legal status of online gaming in India is a complex and frequently discussed topic. The key
question for many enthusiasts is: is online casino legal in India? The answer is nuanced, as the
country’s laws, primarily the Public Gambling Act of 1867, were written long before the internet
existed and do not explicitly mention online casinos. This has created a grey area, which modern
online platforms are navigating in interesting ways.
The “Offshore” Factor: A Key Distinction
A significant part of the legal ambiguity revolves around where the online casino is based. The
laws in India primarily restrict the operation of gambling houses within Indian territory. However,
they are largely silent on Indian citizens accessing and playing on online platforms that are
hosted and operated from outside the country (offshore).
- Foreign-Based Operations: Many online casinos that cater to Indian players are
licensed and regulated in foreign jurisdictions like Curaçao or Malta. By operating
offshore, they do not fall directly under the purview of the 1867 Act. - No Federal Prohibition: There is currently no federal law in India that explicitly prohibits
a citizen from playing on an offshore online casino website.
State Laws: Adding Another Layer of Complexity
It’s important to note that gambling is a state subject in India. This means that individual states
have the authority to enact their own laws.
- Permissive States: Some states, like Goa and Sikkim, have legalized and regulated
certain forms of gambling. - Restrictive States: A few other states, such as Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, have
passed specific laws to ban all forms of online gaming, including skill-based games.
Players should always be aware of the specific laws in their state of residence.
How Modern Platforms Navigate This Landscape
Modern platforms that serve the Indian market often demonstrate their approach to this legal
environment through their features and operations.
- Accepting Indian Players: The very act of accepting registrations from India is an
indication that these platforms operate on the basis of the “offshore” model. - Crypto and E-Wallet Transactions: To navigate potential issues with traditional banking
channels, these platforms heavily promote the use of cryptocurrencies and e-wallets.
This provides a smoother and more private way for players to transact, sidestepping
potential restrictions from Indian banks. - Catering to Indian Preferences: The inclusion of games popular in India, such as Teen
Patti, and offering customer support that understands the needs of the local market,
further shows their commitment to serving this audience within the existing legal
framework.While the legal situation remains complex and subject to change, the current landscape allows
for the operation of offshore online casinos catering to Indian players. These platforms leverage
technology, particularly cryptocurrency, to provide a service that operates within this legal grey
area.