Indian state Karnataka discussing law against online betting
The Karnataka government is preparing to introduce a new law to regulate online betting and gambling, aiming to protect young people and ensure safe digital gaming. Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka, a southern state of India, and senior ministers are in discussions to frame legislation that distinguishes between skill-based and chance-based online games.
Crackdown on online betting
Speaking after a two-day review meeting with deputy commissioners and Zilla Panchayat executives, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that online betting is negatively impacting youth in the state. He confirmed that a new law is being discussed, and a decision will be made soon.
“Online cricket betting is becoming a serious problem. Youngsters are falling prey to this business,” Siddaramaiah stated. He also instructed district commissioners to take strict action against all forms of betting. “Indiscriminate action should be taken,” he said.
Cases on the rise
The Karnataka Police have booked 897 cases related to online betting in the last three years—492 in 2023, 382 in 2024, and 23 till March 2025. Popular platforms such as Rummyculture, Dream11, Zupee, A23 Rummy, and Karnataka Rummy Game were named as illegal during a recent Assembly session by Home Minister G. Parameshwara. He said these platforms do not have proper authorisation to operate in the state.
Draft law in progress
In April, the government announced the formation of a special committee to draft the new law within a month. The committee includes senior government officials and gaming industry representatives. The law will be based on Chhattisgarh’s model, which clearly separates games of chance from games of skill.
Home Minister G. Parameshwara said, “There is currently no regulation for online gaming platforms. Industry representatives have agreed that licensing and a proper legal framework are necessary.”
Focus on user protection
IT and Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge, who is part of the law drafting process, said the main goal is to protect users from financial fraud and exploitation.
“The proposed law is designed to prohibit games of chance while supporting innovation and growth in skill-based gaming,” he explained. The government wants to ensure that the legal gaming industry continues to thrive while illegal activities are brought under control.
In 2021, the former BJP government passed a law banning online games of skill played for money. However, the Karnataka High Court struck down this law in 2022. The government has since challenged the High Court’s decision in the Supreme Court.
