In India, the legal status of casinos varies across different states and union territories. While gambling is largely prohibited under the Public Gambling Act of 1867, some states have made exceptions for certain forms of gambling.
Goa and Sikkim are two states that have legalized casinos. In Goa, casinos operate both on land and offshore on riverboats, offering various games like roulette, blackjack, and slot machines. These establishments have become significant tourist attractions and contribute to the local economy.
Sikkim has also legalized casinos, primarily in five-star hotels, and has issued licenses for online gambling within the state. However, the regulatory framework is strict, and operations are closely monitored.
Despite these exceptions, most forms of gambling remain illegal in India. The central government prohibits online gambling, but some states have their own regulations. For instance, Nagaland and Meghalaya have enacted laws to regulate online games of skill, which are considered legal.
It\“s important to note that Indian law distinguishes between games of chance and games of skill. While games of chance are generally banned, games of skill like rummy and poker have been deemed legal by the Supreme Court in certain contexts. |
