Karnataka explores legal framework to regulate online gaming
The Hindu
Karnataka government plans legal framework for online gaming; Bengaluru police intensify surveillance to curb illegal betting activities.
In response to the growing surge in online betting and gaming activities, the Karnataka government is working on establishing a legal framework to regulate the sector. A high-level meeting was convened on Tuesday to deliberate on this matter.
The meeting, chaired by Home Minister G. Parameshwara and IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge, included participation from senior officials, representatives from online gaming associations, and industry specialists. The discussions centred around introducing clear guidelines to address the rise in online gambling and betting, according to Mr. Kharge.
Mr. Kharge said the proposed legislation aims to curb online gambling and games of chance while safeguarding users from financial exploitation and fraud. He emphasised the need for robust legal mechanisms to distinguish between gambling and games that rely on skill.
Karnataka is reportedly considering adopting a model similar to that of Chhattisgarh, which allows skill-based gaming while prohibiting betting and games of luck. Officials said the objective is to strike a balance between consumer protection and fostering a legitimate online gaming industry.
“The proposed framework is likely to be presented in the coming months, which is Karnataka’s push towards responsible and regulated digital gaming,” a senior official who was present in the meeting said.
With the ongoing Indian Premier League matches drawing massive public attention, the Bengaluru police have intensified surveillance to curb illegal betting activities in the city. Officers are keeping a close watch both online and on the ground, especially around the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, to prevent betting rackets from taking advantage of the cricket frenzy.
According to the police, offline betting is banned in Karnataka under the Karnataka Police Act. However, illegal online betting continues to be a grey area, with many unregulated platforms and mobile applications luring users into wagering on match outcomes.
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