NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has unveiled fresh directives aimed at curbing the promotion of online gambling through advertisements. These revised guidelines have been issued just ahead of the Asia Cup 2023.

As outlined in the advisory, the I&B Ministry has urgently called upon media outlets, advertising intermediaries, and social media networks to cease the display of advertisements and promotional material related to betting and gambling in any manifestation. Non-compliance with these guidelines will result in legal consequences for the concerned parties.

Government officials familiar with the matter have cautioned, "Neglecting to adhere to this advisory may result in appropriate actions taken by the Indian Government under diverse legislations."

The surge in the promotion of betting and online gambling platforms, especially during cricket matches and significant sporting events, has been noted. To address this issue, the authorities have issued a stern warning to media institutions and social media platforms to abstain from showcasing such advertising content.

The advisory further highlighted, "There is also a discernible trend of intensified promotion of these betting and gambling platforms during major sporting events, particularly cricket. An eminent international event of such nature is set to commence within the next few days."

It is noteworthy that the Asia Cup cricket league is slated to commence toward the end of August. Additionally, the ICC World Cup 2023 is scheduled to take place in India this time.

The advisory also drew attention to the association of gambling networks with mechanisms intertwined with money laundering networks, as per the report. The report indicated that the I&B Ministry reissued the same advisory in light of the government's actions against agents' networks involved in accumulating substantial funds from gambling users. The advisory highlighted the significant societal risks posed by these advertisements of gambling and betting platforms.

"The advisory also emphasizes the correlation of these mechanisms with money laundering networks, posing a threat to the nation's financial security... Besides these unlawful activities, there's a strong likelihood that unreported funds are employed to finance such advertisements. Consequently, the Ministry has underscored that certain media entities, along with advertising intermediaries and social media platforms, have been permitting direct and indirect promotions of betting and gambling platforms during major sporting events, encompassing cricket tournaments," the advisory noted.

It is pertinent to note that as per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, any form of gambling involving monetary transactions or betting is considered illegal.

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