Fantasy sports have gained immense popularity in India in recent years, with platforms like Dream11, MyTeam11, and MPL leading the market. The legal framework governing fantasy sports in India is primarily based on the distinction between games of skill and games of chance. According to Indian law, games that require substantial skill, knowledge, and judgment are not considered gambling and are thus legal.
The Supreme Court of India has recognized fantasy sports as a game of skill in several landmark judgments, including the cases involving Dream11. This legal recognition has allowed fantasy sports platforms to operate legally across most states in India. However, some states like Assam, Odisha, and Telangana have specific restrictions or bans on fantasy sports operations.
Indian fantasy sports platforms typically operate as season-long or daily fantasy sports contests. Users create virtual teams by selecting real players from upcoming matches and earn points based on their actual performance in real-world games. The platforms generate revenue through contest entry fees and advertising, while users can win cash prizes based on their teams\“ performance.
The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, with the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports （FIFS） working to establish self-regulatory guidelines and standards for the industry. Recent developments include the implementation of GST regulations and ongoing discussions about consumer protection measures for fantasy sports users in India. |
