Amidst the Supreme Court’s crackdown on misleading advertisements, a more sinister issue has emerged involving illegal betting apps and India’s biggest sporting event, the Indian Premier League (IPL). These betting platforms are openly advertising online, exploiting loopholes in regulations to promote themselves extensively on social media, public transportation, and hoardings across the country.
The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has flagged more than 500 such violative ads in recent weeks, exposing a wider problem of betting on mega events. These apps, such as 1xBET, JannatBook247, and MostBet, operate illegally in India, leaving users vulnerable to financial losses without any legal recourse.
Despite advisories and warnings from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, a large number of illegal betting companies continue to evade detection. Many of these companies don’t have servers in India and thus don’t follow Indian laws. Some platforms, like JannatBook, even allow users to place bets on the results of the Lok Sabha general election, highlighting their disregard for the law.
The government’s crackdown on illegal betting companies has resulted in a complete stop of such ads on TV, video-streaming platforms, and print media. However, they continue to appear on out-of-home and digital media.
While ASCI has been scrutinizing and reporting these ads to the government, it acknowledges that its efforts may not be sufficient without consumer complaints. The government is urged to take stringent action against these advertisers and media for violating the law.
The lack of clear regulation and various interpretations have allowed many of these businesses to operate on the fringes. Angel investor and business strategist Lloyd Mathias emphasizes the need for clear regulatory guidance to address these errant brands.
The All India Gaming Federation (AIGF) also highlights the difficulty in cracking down on out-of-home advertising due to its localized and diversified nature. While the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has written to state chief secretaries to curb these ads, centralizing efforts remains a challenge.
Technology law and policy expert Dhruv Garg points out that hoardings are regulated by municipal bodies and local administrations, which are allowing such illicit ads to be placed freely. Social media accounts and handles of offshore gambling sites are also used for advertising, with some even allowing betting on elections.
The brazen advertising of illegal betting apps highlights the need for increased vigilance and stringent enforcement to protect consumers from these predatory practices.
