Legal Gambling by State

Gambling In India By State

India’s gambling laws are complex and vary significantly from one state to another. While the Public Gambling Act of 1867 serves as a central guideline, individual states can regulate gambling within their borders. This section provides a detailed overview of how gambling is treated in each Indian state—covering land-based casinos, online gambling, and legal grey areas. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious bettor, understanding the local laws is crucial to staying compliant and safe.

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is one of the states in India that has taken a strict stance on gambling, particularly online gambling. The state passed the Andhra Pradesh Gaming Act of 1974, which initially did not consider online gambling. However, in 2020, the state took an aggressive step by amending this law to make all forms of gambling, both physical and online, illegal. This includes not only traditional land-based casinos but also online casinos, poker rooms, and even online sports betting platforms.

As a result, players from Andhra Pradesh are restricted from engaging with local online casinos that operate within India. However, the online casino landscape is still accessible, as residents can choose to gamble on international platforms that are licensed outside of India, such as Curacao or Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licensed casinos. These offshore casinos offer a wide variety of gambling options, including slots, table games, and live casinos, ensuring that players can still enjoy gambling in a regulated and safe environment.

It’s important to note that while residents in Andhra Pradesh may access offshore online casinos, there are no specific laws in India that criminalize accessing or playing on these international sites. This leaves the door open for Andhra Pradesh residents to continue gambling, but with caution, as local laws target physical gambling and not digital gaming.

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh presents an interesting scenario, as the state has passed some unique legislation regarding gambling. The Arunachal Pradesh Gaming (Prohibition) Act, 2012, prohibits land-based gambling but makes an exception for games of skill. This opens a small window for online casinos to operate legally, as online skill-based games such as poker or rummy are not classified as gambling.

For players in Arunachal Pradesh, the key is that they can legally access and engage in online casinos that focus on skill-based games, provided those casinos operate with an offshore license, such as Curacao or MGA. Although the law prohibits gambling on games of chance, this restriction does not extend to skill-based games, which are allowed under the state’s interpretation of gambling.

This means players in Arunachal Pradesh can opt for poker rooms and rummy sites like Betinia Casino that are licensed outside of India. These platforms are not bound by Indian gambling laws, and they can offer skill-based games with real money betting to players in the state, ensuring a safe and legal environment for gambling enthusiasts.

Assam

Assam follows the Assam Game and Betting Act of 1970, which bans land-based casinos and any form of gambling that involves a bet on games of chance. This makes physical casinos and traditional forms illegal in Assam. However, the Act does not specifically mention online gambling or online casinos, leaving a legal grey area.

For residents of Assam, the primary options for gambling are offshore online casinos, which are not regulated under Indian law. These casinos operate under international licenses, such as those from Curacao or the MGA, and provide a wide array of games, including slots, poker, and even live casino games.

The absence of clear regulations on online gambling in Assam means that players can legally access online platforms that do not operate within India, which ensures both legality and safety for those looking to engage in gambling activities. Thus, Assam residents can continue to enjoy a variety of online games through international casinos without fear of legal repercussions as long as they adhere to the regulations set by these offshore platforms.

Bihar

Bihar follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits all forms of land-based gambling and casinos. However, online gambling is not explicitly mentioned in the law, which creates a legal loophole that allows players in Bihar to access offshore online casinos.

Although the state has not introduced specific laws governing online gambling, players in Bihar are free to choose from a variety of international online casinos that are licensed in jurisdictions like Curacao, the UK, or Malta. These platforms offer various casino games, including slots, table games, and sports betting. As online casinos operate beyond Indian jurisdiction, players are not violating any state laws by accessing these platforms.

It is also important to note that the state of Bihar does not regulate online gambling, so players are largely free to enjoy a full range of online gambling options as long as they use offshore licensed platforms. This gives Bihar residents the freedom to enjoy online gambling in a relatively unregulated and risk-free environment.

Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh, like many other states, adheres to the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits all physical gambling activities. However, online gambling is not specifically regulated in the state, leading to ambiguity in the law. The state recently passed the Chhattisgarh Gambling (Prohibition) Bill of 2022, which explicitly bans all forms of gambling, including online gambling.

With this law in place, players in Chhattisgarh are not allowed to engage in any form of gambling, including accessing online casinos. The law was passed to curb the growth of gambling in the state, and while online casinos are not explicitly mentioned, players should avoid engaging in online gambling within the state due to the stringent legal stance.

As a result, residents of Chhattisgarh looking to enjoy gambling are better off refraining from engaging with online platforms for fear of legal repercussions, as the state has made efforts to tighten gambling regulations.

Delhi

Delhi, the capital city of India, operates under the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits land-based casinos and traditional gambling establishments within the state. While the Act addresses physical gambling, it does not specifically cover online gambling, leaving a significant legal grey area. This creates a unique situation where online gambling is neither explicitly regulated nor banned under local laws. As a result, Delhi residents have the freedom to access offshore online casinos that are licensed in reputable jurisdictions like Curacao, Malta, and the UK Gambling Commission. These platforms offer a wide array of gambling options, ranging from online poker and slots to live casino games and sports betting. Because there are no specific laws prohibiting online gambling in Delhi, players can legally participate in these activities without fear of legal consequences. This regulatory ambiguity has made Delhi a more attractive destination for online gambling enthusiasts, as players can engage in both skill-based games and chance-based gambling on international platforms. The lack of comprehensive regulations in Delhi has allowed the state to grow as a hub for online gambling, giving residents access to a diverse range of games and bonuses. For more insights into the legal landscape of gambling in Delhi, you can refer to the legal gambling in Delhi page for a deeper understanding of the topic.

Goa

Goa stands out as the most prominent state for gambling in India, with its land-based casinos being legal and regulated by the Goa, Daman, and Diu Public Gambling Act of 1976. The state has issued licenses for physical casinos, which are allowed to operate in five-star hotels or on offshore casino ships, giving Goa a thriving gambling industry that attracts tourists from all over the world.

When it comes to online gambling, Goa has been a little more relaxed. There is no explicit ban on online casinos, so players in Goa can freely access international platforms with licenses from jurisdictions like Curacao and MGA. Alf Casino is one such online platform that provides a wide selection of gambling options, including slots, poker, and live casino games, all while operating under international regulations.

For tourists, Goa remains a gambling haven where they can participate in both offline and online gambling. The state’s relatively open approach to gambling has made it a hub for both physical and online casinos.

Players in Goa can also benefit from popular offers like welcome bonuses and reload bonuses, which enhance the overall experience for both new and returning users on offshore platforms.

Gujarat

Gujarat is one of the states with the strictest gambling laws in India. The state adheres to the Public Gambling Act of 1867 and the Gujarat Prevention of Gambling Act of 1887, which effectively prohibits all forms of physical gambling, including casinos. The state is particularly strict on gambling activities, and even horse racing, which is legal in many other states, is restricted.

Despite these restrictions, online gambling is not mentioned in Gujarat’s laws. This creates a legal loophole for players in the state to access offshore online casinos that are licensed outside of India. These platforms, which operate under international licenses, provide a wide range of gambling options, from slots to poker and sports betting.

Thus, while land-based gambling is heavily regulated in Gujarat, players can still legally enjoy online gambling through international platforms that operate beyond the reach of local laws. Residents of Gujarat who wish to gamble online should look for casinos that hold licenses in jurisdictions like Curacao or MGA.

Haryana

Haryana, like most states in India, adheres to the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which strictly bans land-based casinos and gambling establishments. This means that physical casinos cannot operate within the state. However, when it comes to online gambling, there is no clear legislation to address the issue, which leaves a grey area in the law.

Given that there are no laws explicitly banning online gambling in Haryana, residents are free to access internationally licensed online casinos. These casinos, which typically hold licenses from Curacao, MGA, or UK Gambling Commission, offer a broad range of gambling options like slots, table games, live poker, and sports betting.

Haryana residents can play on these offshore online platforms with confidence, as the state does not actively regulate or restrict online gambling. Players can enjoy a secure gambling environment, knowing they are engaging with legal and licensed operators outside of India’s jurisdiction. Furthermore, online casinos often provide a safe and reliable gambling experience with robust security measures in place. Boomerang Casino is a great choice for players in Haryana, offering an exciting array of games with a reliable international license.

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is another state where the laws concerning gambling are unclear when it comes to online activities. The state follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits land-based gambling and physical casinos. However, online gambling is not mentioned explicitly in the state’s legal framework, creating ambiguity regarding its legality.

Because the state has not passed any laws specifically regulating online gambling, Himachal Pradesh residents can easily access offshore casinos that hold licenses from Curacao, Malta, or other internationally recognized jurisdictions. These casinos offer a full range of gambling options, from slots and poker to live blackjack and sports betting.

Since there are no state laws prohibiting online gambling, players from Himachal Pradesh can enjoy online gambling without fear of legal repercussions. As long as they engage with licensed international platforms, they are legally free to place their bets online

Jharkhand

In Jharkhand, the situation is similar to many other Indian states. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 applies, which restricts physical casinos and land-based gambling establishments. However, like other states, Jharkhand has not addressed online gambling in its legislative framework. This leaves online gambling largely unregulated, and residents are free to access offshore casinos.

Players in Jharkhand can choose from a wide array of internationally licensed online casinos, typically licensed in Curacao, Malta, or the UK. These platforms offer a secure and legal way for residents to participate in online gambling, providing a broad selection of games, including table games, poker, slots, and live casino options.

While land-based casinos are prohibited in Jharkhand, the lack of clear legislation on online gambling allows players to gamble legally on offshore platforms. As long as they use internationally regulated casinos, there is no risk of legal consequences for online gambling.

With no local laws banning online play, residents can enjoy platforms like Rabona Casino without fear of legal repercussions—as long as they stick to reputable, licensed offshore casinos.

Karnataka

Karnataka, like many other states, has taken a strict stance on land-based casinos. The state follows the Karnataka Police Act of 1963, which bans physical gambling and casinos. However, when it comes to online gambling, the state has not enacted any specific legislation to address this issue, which means the situation remains unclear.

This ambiguity in the law has left Karnataka residents with the option to access international online casinos that are licensed in Curacao, MGA, or the UK Gambling Commission. These offshore platforms are legally licensed to operate in their respective jurisdictions, and players from Karnataka can safely engage with them without fear of legal repercussions.

Because there are no clear laws prohibiting online gambling in Karnataka, players are free to access a wide range of gambling options, including slots, poker, blackjack, live casinos, and sports betting. As long as they stick to regulated, licensed casinos, online gambling remains a safe and legal option for Karnataka residents.

Kerala

Kerala has traditionally had a more conservative approach to gambling. The state follows the Kerala Gaming Act of 1960, which bans land-based casinos and gambling establishments. However, the law does not specifically address online gambling, which leaves a significant gap in the legal framework.

This legal grey area means that Kerala residents can engage in online gambling, especially by choosing offshore casinos that hold licenses from Curacao, MGA, and UK Gambling Commission. These casinos are legally regulated in their jurisdictions and offer a variety of gambling options, including slots, live casino games, poker, and sports betting.

Since online gambling is not explicitly prohibited by Kerala law, players in Kerala can enjoy online casinos safely. By using licensed offshore platforms, they can engage in their favorite games and place bets without concerns about breaking local laws.

Madhya Pradesh

In Madhya Pradesh, the Public Gambling Act of 1867 prohibits land-based casinos and physical gambling establishments. However, the law does not mention anything about online gambling, leaving room for interpretation and ambiguity. As a result, online gambling remains largely unregulated in Madhya Pradesh, allowing players to enjoy online gambling from offshore platforms.

Madhya Pradesh residents can legally access online casinos that are licensed in international jurisdictions like Curacao, Malta, and the UK Gambling Commission. These casinos offer a full range of gambling options, including poker, table games, slots, and sports betting.

Since there are no specific regulations prohibiting online gambling, players in Madhya Pradesh are free to gamble online without fear of legal consequences. As long as they engage with internationally licensed casinos, they can play in a secure and regulated environment.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra is one of the more progressive states in India, but it adheres to the Bombay Prevention of Gambling Act of 1887, which prohibits land-based casinos and most gambling activities. While the state has a strict stance on physical casinos, it does not explicitly address online gambling in its legislation, creating a legal grey area. As a result, online gambling is neither directly regulated nor explicitly prohibited.

This situation allows residents of Maharashtra, including those in Mumbai, to access offshore casinos licensed in jurisdictions like Curacao, MGA, or the UK Gambling Commission. These platforms offer a variety of gambling options, such as slots, online poker, live blackjack, and sports betting.

Since there are no specific legal restrictions on online gambling in Maharashtra, players are free to enjoy their favorite games at licensed international casinos. This gives Mumbai residents, in particular, the opportunity to participate in secure and regulated online gambling experiences without violating any local laws. For a deeper understanding of legal gambling in Mumbai, it’s essential to consider the international regulations that govern online casinos and how they apply to local residents.

Manipur

Manipur, like many other states, follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which bans physical casinos and gambling establishments. However, there is no specific legislation addressing online gambling, which means it is neither explicitly legal nor illegal in the state. This creates a legal loophole for online gambling activities.

Manipur residents can access a variety of offshore online casinos that are licensed in jurisdictions like Curacao, MGA, or the UK Gambling Commission. These casinos offer a broad selection of gambling options, including slots, table games, live casinos, and sports betting.

Since online gambling is not directly regulated or prohibited in Manipur, players in the state can safely engage with online gambling sites like Posido Casino that are licensed outside India. As long as they choose reliable, offshore platforms, they can gamble freely without legal concerns.

Meghalaya

Meghalaya has become one of the more progressive states in India when it comes to gambling laws. The state passed the Meghalaya Regulation of Gaming Act in 2016, which specifically legalizes online gaming in the state. The Act is designed to regulate games of skill and chance within the jurisdiction and includes a framework for licensing operators who wish to provide online gambling services to residents.

For Meghalaya residents, this means they can participate in legal and regulated online gambling within the state. The Meghalaya Gaming Act allows operators to offer games of skill like rummy and poker, and in certain cases, it may include games of chance like slots and live casinos, depending on local regulations.

Meghalaya has thus become a hub for regulated online gambling, offering a safe, legal, and regulated environment for local players. Residents can enjoy a variety of gambling options on licensed platforms, ensuring a secure and fair gambling experience. Players in the state may also benefit from free spin bonuses on many licensed platforms, enhancing their overall gaming experience without requiring an initial deposit.

Mizoram

Mizoram is one of the northeastern states of India where gambling laws are relatively lenient compared to other regions. The state follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which applies to land-based gambling activities, and it does not specifically address online gambling. However, Mizoram has allowed the legal operation of certain gambling activities, including the operation of casinos, under specific conditions.

For residents of Mizoram, while traditional land-based casinos remain restricted, the state does not impose significant regulations on online gambling. This creates a grey area where players can access offshore online casinos licensed in jurisdictions such as Curacao and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). These international platforms offer a range of online casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer games, all within a safe, regulated environment.

Despite the lack of state-specific legislation for online gambling, Mizoram players should be cautious and ensure they are gambling on reputable offshore platforms that adhere to international regulations. There are no laws in India criminalizing online gambling, leaving Mizoram residents free to participate in gambling activities with minimal risk.

Nagaland

Nagaland stands out as one of the few states in India with explicit gambling legislation. The state passed the Nagaland Prohibition of Gambling and Promotion and Regulation of Online Games of Skill Act, 2015, which allows the state to regulate online skill-based games. This law legalizes online gaming for residents as long as the games are skill-based, not based on pure chance.

Under this Act, casinos or gambling platforms can acquire a license to operate within Nagaland, but they are restricted to offering skill-based games only. Games of chance, such as slots and roulette, are prohibited in the state.

For Nagaland residents, this means they can play at online casinos licensed by Nagaland, provided these platforms focus on skill-based games. However, players can also access international online casinos licensed in Curacao, MGA, or the UK Gambling Commission, which offer a wider variety of games, including games of chance.

While Nagaland’s laws are progressive for online skill games, the restriction on chance-based games means that many players still opt for international online casinos that offer the full spectrum of gambling options. VIP casino bonuses are often available on these international platforms, providing additional incentives for players to enjoy their gaming experience.

Odisha

Odisha follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which bans land-based casinos and gambling establishments. As with many other states, the legislation does not address online gambling, leaving it in a legal grey area.

As a result, players in Odisha are free to access offshore online casinos licensed in Curacao, Malta, and the UK, where they can participate in a variety of gambling activities, such as slots, live casinos, poker, and sports betting. These internationally regulated casinos are legally licensed to operate in their jurisdictions and provide a safe and secure environment for Indian players.

Since online gambling is not specifically regulated in Odisha, players can legally engage in online gambling without fear of legal consequences. They can choose from a wide range of games and enjoy a smooth gambling experience on regulated platforms.

Punjab

Punjab follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits land-based casinos and gambling establishments. However, like many other states, there is no clear legislation addressing online gambling, creating a loophole in the law.

Punjab residents can legally access offshore online casinos that are licensed in reputable jurisdictions such as Curacao, MGA, and the UK Gambling Commission. These platforms offer a wide variety of gambling options, including poker, slots, blackjack, live casinos, and sports betting.

Since online gambling is not prohibited, players in Punjab can safely engage with internationally licensed online casinos. They can enjoy a broad selection of gambling games in a secure, legal environment.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan, like many Indian states, follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits land-based casinos and gambling establishments. However, when it comes to online gambling, the state has not passed any specific laws, leaving a legal gap.

This means that players in Rajasthan can access offshore online casinos licensed in international jurisdictions such as Curacao, Malta, and the UK Gambling Commission. These casinos provide a full range of gambling activities, from slots to live blackjack and sports betting.

Since online gambling is not addressed in Rajasthan’s laws, players can legally enjoy online gambling on licensed international platforms. By choosing regulated platforms, they can ensure their safety while gambling.

Sikkim

Sikkim is one of the few states in India that has actively legalized and regulated land-based gambling. The state introduced the Sikkim Casino Games (Regulation) Act, 2002, which permits physical casinos to operate within the state. Additionally, Sikkim has taken a progressive stance on online gambling through the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Act, 2008, allowing licensed online casino operators to legally offer their services within the region.

As a result, residents of Sikkim enjoy access to both regulated land-based casinos and officially licensed online gambling platforms. These platforms offer a secure and transparent environment, supported by clear guidelines that ensure fairness and protect player interests.

In addition to local platforms, players in Sikkim can also explore international offshore casinos licensed by authorities such as Curacao or the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). These global platforms offer a wider variety of online casino games, including slots, poker, blackjack, and live dealer games.

Sikkim-based players can benefit from appealing promotions, such as low wagering casino bonuses that make it easier to convert bonus funds into real winnings. For high rollers and frequent players, VIP casino bonuses provide additional rewards and exclusive perks across many offshore and domestic platforms that cater to Indian users.

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu operates under the Tamil Nadu Gaming Act of 1930, which strictly prohibits land-based gambling and casino establishments. While the legislation is clear on physical gambling, it does not directly address the legality of online gambling. This gap has created a grey area, allowing online gambling to exist without explicit regulation or prohibition within the state.

In cities like Chennai, this legal ambiguity has shaped the landscape of digital gaming. Residents can access offshore online casinos that are licensed by international authorities such as Curacao, Malta, and the UK Gambling Commission. These platforms offer a wide variety of gambling experiences, including slots, live dealer games, sports betting, and poker, all in regulated environments that prioritize player safety and fairness.

As a result, the framework for legal gambling in Chennai primarily revolves around access to these offshore platforms. Without specific laws banning digital gambling, players in Chennai are able to engage in online casino games without violating state legislation as long as they choose reputable and licensed international sites.

Legal gambling in Chennai continues to be shaped by this legal openness, offering players a secure path to enjoy regulated online gambling options.

Telangana

Telangana has strict laws regarding gambling, specifically when it comes to land-based casinos. The state follows the Telangana Gaming Act, which prohibits physical casinos. The law does not specifically address online gambling, leaving the matter in legal ambiguity.

Telangana residents can engage with offshore online casinos that hold licenses from internationally recognized jurisdictions such as Curacao, Malta, and the UK Gambling Commission. These casinos offer a broad range of gambling activities, including table games, slots, poker, and sports betting.

Since online gambling is not explicitly regulated or prohibited, players in Telangana are free to engage with licensed offshore platforms without fear of legal consequences.

Tripura

Tripura, like Mizoram, is a northeastern state that does not have stringent laws regulating gambling. The state follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which bans land-based gambling but does not explicitly address online gambling. As a result, traditional casinos are not allowed to operate in Tripura, but there are no specific provisions that restrict players from accessing offshore online casinos.

Players in Tripura can freely engage with international online casinos that operate with licenses from jurisdictions such as Curacao, MGA, and others. These platforms provide a wide selection of online casino games, including popular options like slots, poker, and roulette, giving players a broad range of gambling options.

While the legal landscape in Tripura allows residents to access online casinos without fear of legal repercussions, it’s essential for players to choose well-regulated offshore platforms that offer secure gambling environments. With the absence of specific laws regulating online gambling, Tripura residents have the opportunity to enjoy online casino games and promotional offers like low wagering casino bonuses and VIP casino bonuses, available across international platforms.

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits physical casinos and gambling establishments. However, the law does not specifically address online gambling, creating a legal grey area. As a result, online gambling remains largely unregulated in the state.

Players in Uttar Pradesh can access international online casinos that hold licenses from Curacao, MGA, and the UK Gambling Commission. These platforms offer a wide selection of gambling games, such as slots, poker, live blackjack, and sports betting.

Since there are no laws specifically prohibiting online gambling, players in Uttar Pradesh can legally participate in online gambling on licensed offshore platforms.

Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which restricts physical casinos and gambling establishments within the state. However, like many other Indian states, online gambling remains unregulated, leaving residents in a legal grey area.

Players in Uttarakhand can easily access offshore online casinos licensed by Curacao, MGA, and the UK Gambling Commission. These platforms offer a wide variety of gambling options, including slots, poker, live casino games, and sports betting.

Since the state does not have any laws explicitly addressing online gambling, residents are free to enjoy online gambling on internationally regulated platforms without any legal concerns.

West Bengal

West Bengal follows the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits physical casinos and gambling establishments. Similar to many other states, online gambling is not explicitly addressed in the state’s legal framework, leaving it unregulated.

Residents in West Bengal can legally access offshore online casinos that hold licenses from international regulatory bodies such as Curacao, MGA, and the UK Gambling Commission. These casinos offer a full spectrum of gambling activities, including slots, poker, live blackjack, and sports betting.

Since online gambling is not directly prohibited by law in West Bengal, players can safely enjoy their favorite gambling activities on licensed offshore platforms.

Conclusion on Gambling Laws and Safe Play in India

India’s gambling landscape is a patchwork of state-specific regulations layered over central laws like the Public Gambling Act of 1867. While some states like Goa and Sikkim embrace regulated gambling, others like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have imposed strict bans. Many states operate in a legal grey area where online gambling via offshore platforms remains accessible but unregulated. As the legal environment continues to evolve, players need to stay informed and exercise caution. Always choose reputable and licensed platforms—especially if you’re gambling online—to ensure a safe and secure experience.