India's online betting faces legal uncertainty and risks

India currently lacks a unified law for online betting, resulting in a patchwork of regulations across different states. Some states have strict prohibitions, while others allow betting to operate in a legal grey area. This creates challenges for authorities trying to regulate these platforms, many of which register their businesses overseas. The popularity of online betting has surged, especially during the Indian Premier League. However, this trend has raised concerns about an increase in financial losses among Indian bettors. The ease of access to betting sites, combined with aggressive advertising for quick cash, can pressure individuals into making impulsive bets they cannot afford. Many in India may not fully understand betting odds, making them especially vulnerable. Experts like Gaurav Bhalla suggest that the government should establish clear regulations, separating betting from games of skill, which should be permitted. Some states have addressed online betting differently. For instance, Assam imposes fines and imprisonment for illegal betting, while Tamil Nadu allows regulation of certain online skill games. Despite the complications, online betting platforms, like Parimatch, continue to thrive through sponsorship deals with popular sports teams. They exploit legal loopholes due to the absence of a centralized regulatory framework. Current laws do mention gambling and betting but do not specifically address online sports betting. For users, this uncertainty means they should be cautious and verify whether a betting platform is legally allowed to operate in their state. Both individuals and companies interested in betting should seek legal advice to navigate this complex landscape safely.