Is Casino Banned in India? A Comprehensive Guide to Gambling Laws in India
India's gambling regulations are complex and vary significantly across its 28 states and 8 Union Territories. While no federal law explicitly bans casinos nationwide, most states prohibit or heavily restrict gambling activities. Here's a detailed breakdown:
1. Legal Framework
Constitutional Provisions: Article 372 and 373 empower states to legislate on gambling. No central law governs it, leading to fragmented regulations.
Public Gambling Act, 1867: A colonial-era law prohibits running or visiting gambling houses in most states, though enforcement is inconsistent.
2. States with Legalized Casinos
Only three states permit regulated casinos:
Andhra Pradesh: Legal since 1996, with 15 licensed casinos in Visakhapatnam.
Gujarat: Allows riverboat casinos on the Sabarmati River (e.g., Deltavision).
Punjab: permits small-scale card games like Rummy in licensed venues.
Goa historically allowed casinos (since 1972) but suspended licenses in 2023 due to a Supreme Court ruling. Reforms are pending.
3. States with Partial Restrictions
Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu: Legalize certain games (e.g., Rummy, Bridge) but ban casinos.
Himachal Pradesh: Permits horse racing and lotteries but prohibits casinos.
4. Union Territories
Diu & Daman: разрешают казино с 2012 года (бывшие колониальные территории).
Lakshadweep: полный запрет.
5. Online Gambling
Legally Ambiguous: No explicit ban, but states like Sikkim and Nagaland regulate online platforms.
Rise of "Dream11" Controversy: In 2023, the Supreme Court upheld a 2017 order banning skill-based online platforms, targeting cricket betting apps.
6. Religious & Cultural Influences
Hindu majority states (e.g., Uttar Pradesh, Bihar) strictly prohibit gambling.
Sikh-majority Punjab allows card games as "games of skill," reflecting cultural acceptance.
7. Enforcement Challenges
Black Market Thrives: Unregulated online platforms and地下 casinos operate despite bans.
Revenue Generation: States like Sikkim generate ₹1.5 billion annually from legal gambling.
8. Recent Developments (2023)
Goa Reforms: Proposed to allow casinos on land (not just riverboats) and lower betting limits.
Andhra Pradesh: Expanded casino licenses to coastal cities like Visakhapatnam.
9. Key Risks for Players
Legal Penalties: Up to ₹10,000 fine and 3 months imprisonment under the Public Gambling Act.
Financial Scams: Unregulated platforms often disappear with user funds.
10. Future Outlook
Centralized Legislation: Pressure to create a federal gambling law is growing.
Skill vs. Chance Debate: Courts increasingly distinguish "games of skill" (allowed) from pure luck (banned).
Conclusion
While casinos are technically legal in three states, most Indians face strict gambling prohibitions. The legal landscape is evolving, particularly in Goa and Sikkim. Travelers and investors must verify local laws before engaging. For now, the safest bet is to stick to lottery or skill-based games in regulated states.
Note: Laws change frequently. Consult a legal expert before participating in any gambling activity.
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