Supreme Court Seeks Centre’s Response on PIL to Ban or Regulate Betting Apps
New Delhi, May 23, 2025 – The Supreme Court has asked the Central government to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by social activist Dr. K.A. Paul, seeking a ban or strict regulation of online and offline betting apps. The bench of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh issued a notice to the Centre, stating that states may be involved later if needed.
The PIL claims betting apps promote gambling, harming youth and leading to suicides. Dr. Paul highlighted that over 1,023 suicides in Telangana were linked to these apps. He also pointed out that 25 celebrities, including Bollywood and Tollywood stars, cricketers, and influencers, promote these apps, luring young people. He urged the court to ban these apps or regulate them tightly, citing violations of Article 21 (right to life and liberty).
The court acknowledged the issue’s seriousness but noted that banning gambling outright is challenging, as laws alone cannot fully stop such activities. Justice Kant remarked, “We agree in principle that this needs control, but expecting a law to end it completely is unrealistic, like stopping murders.”
The PIL demands: a ban or regulation of betting apps, removal of illegal apps from platforms like Google and Apple, restrictions on foreign betting platforms, a ban on celebrity endorsements, criminal probes against app operators, and a high-level committee to study gambling laws.
For example, in Telangana, celebrities like Rana Daggubati faced action under the Public Gambling Act for promoting betting apps. Similarly, fantasy sports like Dream 11 have been deemed “games of skill” by courts, creating a legal gray area.
The court’s final decision will depend on the Centre’s response. This case could reshape regulations around betting apps and celebrity endorsements, sparking a debate on controlling gambling in India.
Literal Law News Service
