Supreme Court Upholds States' Power to Ban Online Betting Platforms

The Supreme Court has ruled that while online betting may involve elements of skill, it does not enjoy constitutional protection. Upholding the validity of laws enacted by Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to prohibit online betting on various sports and games, the court clarified that state governments have full authority to legislate on matters related to online gaming and betting. The bench comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and others emphasized that such regulations are aimed at protecting public interest, law and order, and social welfare.

The apex court also observed that wagering money on games such as online rummy and poker amounts to gambling, even if those games require skill. Taking note of the growing social concerns linked to online gaming addiction, including financial distress and suicides among young people, the court said states are justified in imposing restrictions. The verdict is expected to strengthen efforts by states across India to regulate or prohibit online betting applications.