By iastoppers.com
The Centre issued blocking orders against 22 illegal betting apps and websites, after requested by ED
Indian law distinguishes Games of Skill & Chance, former relies on player's knowledge whereas later depend on luck
Regulation by Public Gambling Act, 1867 & Information Technology Act, 2000 (Section 66, 67A, 67B)
Supreme Court's ruling given on skill vs. chance, where it defined gambling based on predominance
Amendments to IT Rules, 2021 were made with focus on safeguarding gamers from addiction and harmful content
3-tier mechanism to regulate them with “Grievance Redressal System” and self-regulatory organization for registration and certification
Games where the player deposits assets in the expectation to earn more winnings, and are verified with the self-regulatory bodies
Introduction of regulations for online gaming intermediaries, including internet providers, web hosting companies, etc
Online gaming intermediaries must verify users through KYC
30% tax on withdrawal winnings to discourage casual gamers and reduce the number of players
GST Council introduces uniform 28% tax on online gaming covering domains like casinos, horse racing, etc
New regulations don't replace existing state laws, which balances jurisdiction between centre & state