The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to key regulatory bodies including the RBI, ED, TRAI—and all state governments in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a nationwide ban on illegal betting apps. The Bench, led by Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, also sought responses from tech giants Google and Apple, as well as gaming platforms Dream11, MPL, and A23 Games. The PIL calls for strict regulation of online gaming and fantasy sports, and the enactment of a comprehensive central law. The matter is tentatively scheduled for hearing on August 18, with the court hinting at possible interim directions.
Filed by Dr. K.A. Paul, a self-described social activist and President of Global Peace Initiative, the petition cites the suicide of 24 individuals in Telangana due to betting-related debt and an FIR against 25 celebrities for promoting betting apps. The plea argues that online betting, often disguised as fantasy sports or skill-based gaming, is exploitative and lacks uniform regulation under Indian law. It urges the Supreme Court to intervene directly to protect youth and vulnerable citizens from the dangers of unregulated gambling, which is prohibited in many states under the Public Gambling Act, 1867.