Illegal online betting thrives in India's Telangana, 87% bet daily: report
Despite a blanket ban on online real-money gaming in the southern Indian state of Telangana, a new in-depth consumer study has uncovered widespread daily participation in these activities. Conducted by Delhi-based civil society group PRAHAR (Public Response Against Helplessness and Action for Redressal), the survey found that a staggering 96 per cent of users are fully aware that real-money gaming is illegal in the state. Yet, 87 per cent admitted to engaging in online sports betting and 바카라 gaming every single day, highlighting the scale of ongoing violations and the ineffectiveness of existing enforcement measures.
The study, Click. Bet. Repeat: Consumer Survey on Forces Driving Online Betting and Gambling in Telangana, is based on responses from 2,671 real-money gaming users. It reveals that 96% of players are aware that real-money gaming is illegal in Telangana, yet 87% still participate in online sports betting and 바카라 betting every day.
96% of users know real money gaming is illegal in , yet still participate in online sports betting and 바카라 betting, with 87% playing daily – PRAHAR Survey throws shocking data
— HelplessnessRedressal (@PraharResponse)
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Offshore operators exploit loopholes
Telangana was the first Indian state to ban all forms of online real-money gaming in 2017, including skill-based games such as rummy, poker, and fantasy sports. The ban, enforced through amendments to the introduced strict penalties including fines and imprisonment—even for first-time offenders.
However, the PRAHAR study shows that offshore platforms have stepped in to fill the gap. Most of these operators are foreign entities, bypassing enforcement through encrypted apps, VPNs, and digital marketing. About 89% of users said they can access betting platforms with almost no restrictions, while 92% confirmed they prefer offshore betting and 바카라 websites.
Today, we unveiled findings of first-of-its-kind survey of those violating Telangana’s online gaming ban — at scale. What they revealed will challenge everything you thought about prohibition. Stay tuned
— HelplessnessRedressal (@PraharResponse)
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The platforms most commonly named include Stake, Teen Patti 979 and various colour-prediction apps. The main channels of recruitment are social media advertisements (59%) and direct marketing via SMS, WhatsApp, and phone calls (35%). These campaigns often use local influencers and meme pages to legitimise the platforms. “바카라ers are careful not to reveal their true identities while betting, which makes VPNs the most popular choice—used by 69% of respondents. Telegram links are the second popular choice at 20%,” said PRAHAR President & National Convenor, Abhay Raj Mishra.
“Telangana led the way in 2017 with a blanket ban on all online real-money plays—skill or chance—without even drawing a line between legal and illegal play. What was hailed as a bold move has, in reality, created the perfect storm for offshore sports betting and 바카라 to thrive unchecked. Eight years on, the evidence is undeniable that the ban has failed,” said Mishra.
Young and educated gamblers suffer heavy losses
The study reveals that a majority of real-money gamers in Telangana are between the ages of 18 and 25, with 62% of respondents under the age of 30. Around 50% are graduates or postgraduates. The user base is predominantly male (78%), but women make up a significant 22%.
According to PRAHAR’s survey, making quick money (97%) and entertainment (61%) are the top motivators driving people to indulge in online gambling and betting despite the ban in
— HelplessnessRedressal (@PraharResponse)
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The motivations are clear: 97% of users said they bet to make quick money, while 61% cited entertainment as a key reason. Income data shows that nearly 38% earn less than ₹15,000 a month, and 60% belong to households with monthly earnings below ₹30,000.
Despite the high rate of participation, only 8% of respondents reported actual winnings. Still, 86.7% said their decision to join was influenced by stories of big wins. “The prospects of winning large sums from meagre investment attracts 86% of users, while 56% continue betting because they believe others are winning big,” a PRAHAR member said.
Losses are widespread. About 79% of punters reported losses exceeding ₹50,000, and 99% said they had lost money overall. The average monthly spend ranges from ₹500 to ₹5,000—small amounts that build up over time, especially for low-income users. Around 94% of participants bypass Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and fund accounts through UPI payments via agents or friends.
To uncover the untold truth, PRAHAR surveyed 2,671 online real-money players in Telangana. The findings are shocking — from how they still play to how they bypass the ban.
— HelplessnessRedressal (@PraharResponse)
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Legalisation favoured by users
Despite the risks and legal consequences, user sentiment favours regulation over prohibition. The study found that 94% of respondents want real-money gaming platforms to be legalised and regulated in Telangana.
“What was seen as a bold preventive measure in 2017 has only succeeded in driving out domestic operators and inviting offshore syndicates to dominate the market. The result is a thriving grey economy that undermines national security and digital sovereignty,” said Mishra.
The PRAHAR team developed its questionnaire after gathering preliminary insights through unstructured discussions. The comprehensive six-week study covered users accessing platforms via Google 바카라 Store apps, Telegram links, and social media ads.
As Telangana authorities crack down on operators with legal notices and investigations, PRAHAR’s report paints a sobering picture of a ban that may have backfired—pushing users into the shadows and into the arms of unregulated foreign entities.
