SC issues notice to Centre on betting apps.
The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Central government on a petition seeking a nationwide ban on betting apps. A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N.K. Singh sought the Centre’s response on the matter, acknowledging the growing concerns over the proliferation of online betting platforms and their potential impact on society, especially the youth. However, the bench refrained from issuing notices to individual state governments at this stage, stating that their involvement could be considered at a later point if necessary. The plea contends that betting apps are contributing to financial distress, addiction, and other social issues, and calls for stringent regulation or a complete ban to curb their misuse. The matter will be heard further.
Overview of the Supreme Court’s Decision
However, the court has decided not to extend notices to state governments at this stage, focusing solely on the federal level.
Concerns Raised by the Petitioners
The petitioner, identified as a prominent social activist and humanitarian, filed the public interest litigation (PIL) stating that the proliferation of illegal betting apps poses a severe threat to the mental well-being and democracy of India. The claim is supported by concerning statistics, including an FIR registered against numerous celebrities for their involvement in promoting these apps and a shocking report of 24 suicides linked to debt incurred from online betting in Telangana.
The Need for Regulatory Measures
In the petition, the need for strict regulations surrounding online gaming and fantasy sports is strongly emphasized. The petitioner argues for a comprehensive law to govern online betting practices, highlighting that such gambling activities often disguise themselves as skill-based gaming. They assert that betting is fundamentally a game of chance and thus should be categorized under gambling laws, which remain under-regulated at both state and central levels. The hope is that the court’s action may lead to necessary reforms to protect vulnerable segments of society.