The Supreme Court of India on Friday agreed to examine a Public Interest Litigation seeking a complete ban on illegal betting applications and stricter online gaming and fantasy sports regulation. The petition also enacts a comprehensive central law to govern the unregulated online betting ecosystem.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N.K. Singh issued a notice to the Central Government, asking for its response. However, the same action wasn’t taken against  state governments. The petition was filed by a social activist, humanitarian, and President of the Global Peace Initiative. 

Furthermore, this petitioner, who claims to be a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, expressed that the PIL was filed in the larger public interest to safeguard Indian youths from the hazards of betting online under the guise of fantasy sports and skill-based gaming.

Concerns Over Lack of Regulation

The PIL argues that betting and gambling are not skill-based but games of chance. Hence, they fall under prohibitions outlined in several Indian states’ laws, including the Public Gambling Act of 1867. The petitioner expressed concerns about the lack of a uniform central legislation, which has led to a fragmented regulatory landscape and exploitation of consumers.

“That betting, both online and offline, is inherently a game of chance, not a game of skill, and hence falls within the ambit of gambling, which is prohibited in many states,” the petition stated.

It warned that millions of Indian citizens are at risk due to promotional campaigns by celebrities and influencers endorsing these platforms.

Celebrities Under Fire for Endorsements

The PIL referenced an FIR registered in Telangana in March 2025 against 25 Bollywood actors, cricketers, and social media influencers for allegedly misleading the public with gambling advertisements. Such endorsements give illegal betting apps a sense of legitimacy, drawing in vulnerable users.

The plea also stressed that online betting is often disguised as fantasy sports or skill-based gaming. This is a grey area allowing many apps to operate unchecked.

Call for Comprehensive Legislation

The petitioner urged the court to direct the Central Government to clearly distinguish between legitimate online games and gambling activities. He called for strict compliance mechanisms and a nationwide ban on illegal platforms.

“The unregulated nature of this industry is a threat to the sanity and democracy of India,” the petitioner stated. “There is an urgent need for a law that addresses these challenges and protects vulnerable users.”

While the court hasn’t passed any interim measures, its decision to examine the matter has reignited debate around responsible gaming and celebrity accountability.

The Centre is expected to reply to the notice in the coming weeks, setting the stage for a landmark ruling. This could reshape the future of online gaming and betting in India.