Govt blocks 300 illegal betting sites, total crackdown crosses 8,400 platforms

The government has blocked around 300 illegal gambling and betting websites and applications in a fresh crackdown, intensifying efforts to regulate online gaming and curb unauthorized real-money wagering platforms. The action targets a wide range of digital platforms, including sports betting sites, online casinos, and peer-to-peer betting exchanges operating in violation of existing laws.

According to officials, the blocked platforms included websites offering casino-style games such as slots, roulette, and live dealer experiences, along with real-money card games and betting marketplaces. Authorities also took action against traditional satta and matka gambling networks that have increasingly shifted to digital platforms to evade enforcement.

This latest move is part of a broader campaign under strengthened online gaming regulations, with the government aiming to dismantle illegal betting ecosystems that pose financial and legal risks. So far, nearly 8,400 such websites and applications have been blocked, with a significant portion—around 4,900—taken down after the implementation of the updated online gaming law.

Officials indicated that many of these platforms attempt to bypass restrictions through tactics such as frequently changing URLs and operating through mirror sites. Despite these evasive strategies, enforcement agencies have continued to identify and block such platforms through coordinated monitoring and technological intervention.

The crackdown also carries strict penalties for operators and promoters of illegal betting services. Those found running or advertising such platforms may face imprisonment and heavy fines, as authorities expand their focus beyond operators to include advertisers and facilitators involved in the ecosystem.