In India, horse race betting operates under a unique legal framework that distinguishes it from other forms of gambling. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 generally prohibits gambling activities, but horse racing is exempted under certain conditions.
The legality stems from the fact that horse race betting is considered a game of skill rather than chance. The Supreme Court of India has upheld this distinction, recognizing that successful betting requires knowledge of horses, jockeys, track conditions, and racing strategies.
Several states have specific regulations governing horse race betting. Major racing centers like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata have licensed racecourses where legal betting takes place through totalizators or bookmakers. The Betting and Gambling Act allows states to formulate their own rules regarding horse race betting.
Online horse race betting has also gained popularity, with several platforms operating legally under state licenses. However, bettors should ensure they use only licensed and regulated platforms to avoid legal issues.
The revenue generated from legal horse race betting contributes significantly to state treasuries and supports the horse racing industry, including breeding programs, jockey training, and racecourse maintenance. |
