UNVEILING THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE OF ONLINE GAMBLING AND FANTASY GAMING IN INDIA: AN ANALYSIS OF THE UNDERGROUND ECONOMY

AUTHOR – DHANUSH M N, STUDENT AT CHRIST UNIVERSITY

BEST CITATION – DHANUSH M N, UNVEILING THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE OF ONLINE GAMBLING AND FANTASY GAMING IN INDIA: AN ANALYSIS OF THE UNDERGROUND ECONOMY, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 4 (1) OF 2024, PG. 571-578, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

Abstract

The emergence of online gaming stands as a pioneering force in this century, transforming in an age marked by rapid technological progress and widespread internet access. However, the unregulated landscape of online gambling presents significant implications for both individuals and nations. This article delves into the nuanced domain of gambling and online betting regulations in India, providing an in-depth analysis of its regulatory framework. It offers a comprehensive overview of India’s legal landscape concerning online gambling, including key legislations such as the Public Gambling Act of 1867, the Information Technology Act of 2000, and the Financial Exchange Management Act of 2000. Within the current legal framework of India, the paper advocates for the potential benefits of legalizing and regulating gambling activities. It underscores the imperative to delineate between games of skill and chance within online gaming platforms and explores the associated complexities. Furthermore, it highlights the repercussions of unregulated online gambling in India and the pressing need for a robust legal framework. Finally, the paper puts forth recommendations for more stringent oversight and management of online gaming in the country.

Keywords – Online Gambling, Regulatory Framework, Gambling Laws, Fantasy Games, Games of Skill, Taxes