In India, the casino industry operates under a complex legal framework that varies significantly across different states. The primary legislation governing gambling activities is the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits running or visiting public gambling houses. However, this colonial-era law has been amended and interpreted differently by various states.
Goa and Sikkim are the only states that have legalized land-based casinos in India. Goa permits both offshore and onshore casinos, while Sikkim allows casinos in five-star hotels with at least 50 rooms. These establishments must obtain proper licenses and adhere to strict regulations regarding operations, security, and age verification.
Online gambling regulations in India are even more complicated. While some states have specific laws prohibiting online gambling, others have ambiguous regulations. The Information Technology Act of 2000 doesn\“t explicitly address online gambling, creating a legal gray area. Many international online casinos accept Indian players, but their legal status remains uncertain.
Age restrictions for casino gambling in India typically require players to be at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on the state regulations. Casino operators must implement robust identity verification systems to prevent underage gambling and money laundering activities.
Taxation of casino winnings varies across states, with most states imposing taxes on gross gaming revenue. Players should be aware that significant winnings may be subject to income tax under the Income Tax Act of 1961. Responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion programs and spending limits, are increasingly being implemented in licensed casinos. |
