Goa cyber police block 157 sites, including 61 illegal gambling websites

Rajashree Seal January 24, 2025

SiGMA news

In a bid to combat illegal online gambling activities, the Cyber Crime Cell of Goa police have blocked 157 sites including 61 gambling sites. Superintendent of Police (Crime Branch) Rahul Gupta said that since November 2024, the total number of blocked websites used to scam people and offensive social media posts and accounts has now reached 157.

Issuing a statement on the matter, Gupta said, “To combat illegal online gambling activities, the Cyber Crime Police Station, Ribandar, Goa, has taken stringent measures by blocking 61 gambling websites. This action has been carried out in accordance with the provisions of Section 168 of the BNSS, Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, and Rule 3(1)(d) of the IT Rules.”

Admitting that online gambling has long been a serious concern due to numerous instances of fraud and financial exploitation, Gupta said blocking these websites aims to protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to such fraudulent activities.

“Investigations into these websites have already commenced. Previously, the Cyber Cell had blocked 96 websites, social media posts, and accounts under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act,” the police official added.

The cybercrime police station has appealed to the general public to report any cases of illegal online gambling activities to the authorities for immediate action.

Gambling in India

India has a deep-rooted gambling tradition embedded in its cultural and social fabric. From the roll of dice in the Mahabharata, where a wager cost a princely clan its kingdom, to traditional bets on rooster fights and card games like rummy (considered a game of skill), gambling has long been a part of Indian life. Popular games such as teen patti (similar to poker) and matka (a lottery-like game) have been enjoyed across many states, and gambling is closely tied to festivals and social gatherings.

However, gambling in India remains controversial, with laws varying from state to state. While most states prohibit gambling, exceptions exist for lottery and horse racing. Goa and Sikkim are the only states where casinos are allowed. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 serves as the central legislation, prohibiting the operation of “common gaming houses,” although it makes an exception for “games of skill” like rummy.

Despite these prohibitions, illegal gambling is estimated to generate a $60 billion market in India. The online gambling market alone is predicted to have 12.17 million users, with projections for an annual growth rate of 8.5% through 2027.

Online gambling exists in a legal gray area, with most states lacking specific laws against it. However, states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have banned online gaming, betting, and gambling since 2020. While Sikkim allows online betting through licensed operators, the Information Technology Act prohibits sharing information that promotes online gambling.

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