New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has released a fresh advisory urging media entities, advertising intermediaries, and social media platforms to immediately stop airing advertisements or promotional content related to betting and gambling. The advisory warns that failure to comply may result in appropriate legal actions.

Government officials familiar with the matter emphasized that disregarding this advisory could lead to actions by the Government of India under various laws. The Centre observed a surge in the promotion of betting and gambling platforms during cricket matches and significant sports events. In response, the I&B Ministry has cautioned media organizations and social media platforms against featuring such advertisements. The advisory is particularly timely as the Asia Cup cricket league is approaching at the end of this month, followed by the ICC World Cup 2023 in India.

The advisory, highlights that it stems from the government's action against agents who collected substantial funds from gambling users. Such advertisements pose significant financial and socio-economic risks. The ministry has noted several illegalities associated with these advertisements, including the potential use of black money. It emphasizes that these practices are linked to money laundering networks, posing a threat to the nation's financial security. The advisory also underscores the role of certain media entities, advertising intermediaries, and social media platforms in allowing advertisements for betting and gambling platforms during major sporting events, including cricket tournaments.

According to the Public Gambling Act of 1867, any form of gambling involving money or betting is considered illegal. Advertising or promoting such activities on media platforms contradicts various statutes, including the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the Press Council Act 1978. The Public Gambling Act, a Central law, prohibits running public gaming houses. Violations can result in fines of up to Rs. 200 or imprisonment for a maximum of three months.

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