ABSTRACT
The legal challenges in regulating online gaming and gambling in India present a
complex landscape, as the current regulatory frameworks struggle to keep pace with the
rapid growth of digital platforms. This research analyzes the existing legal frameworks
governing online gaming and gambling, which are characterized by a fragmented and
inconsistent approach across different states in India. The distinction between games of
skill and games of chance plays a significant role in determining legality, yet this
differentiation remains contentious and difficult to enforce in the online context.
Additionally, the lack of uniform national regulation results in confusion and creates
loopholes for operators. Emerging issues such as consumer protection, data privacy, and
the rise of online betting further complicate the regulatory environment. The study aims
to examine these challenges while assessing the effectiveness of current laws, such as the
Public Gambling Act of 1867, and evaluating the need for modernized and unified legal
frameworks that account for technological advancements and the changing nature of
gaming and gambling activities. Through this analysis, the research will propose
recommendations for more robust regulatory measures to ensure fairness, transparency,
and consumer safety in the online gaming and gambling sector in India.