1524 online gaming and betting sites banned, the biggest digital cleanup of the Government of India

Apps Ban In India 2022-2025: The Government of India has banned 1524 illegal online betting websites and apps from 2022 to June 2025. Information about this has been given in Parliament by the government. Know the reason behind this and the new tax rules.

Between the years 2022 and June 2025, the Government of India has blocked a total of 1,524 illegal online betting and gaming websites and mobile apps (Apps Ban In India 2022-2025). These platforms were not following Indian tax rules and local laws, due to which the government had to take this step.

Tax and legal aspects

The Directorate of GST Intelligence (DGGI) is empowered under the Information Technology Act and the IGST Act to block such illegal and unregistered online gaming platforms. India has a 28% GST on online gaming and a 30% income tax on net winnings from 2024-25. Foreign companies are required to register under the IGST Act to operate in India; otherwise, they can be blocked.

Digital advertising and fraudulent methods

Illegal online betting platforms often reach Indian users through advertising on digital platforms such as Google and Meta. They often use surrogate advertising, which hides their true identity and misleads users.

Government policy and role of states

The central government aims to ensure an open, safe, reliable and accountable internet. For this, it provides financial assistance and advice to the states and union territories to enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies. Since betting and gambling is a subject of the State List as per the Constitution, the states have the right to legislate on it.

What will happen with this government action?

This strict action by the government is a big step towards bringing regularity and transparency in the field of online gaming and betting. This will not only prevent tax evasion, but will also provide users with a safe and reliable digital experience.