Sports Betting is illegal in India but is it illegal to bet on sports with a legal bookmaker outside India?
Sports betting in India until the date is a crime, but it is also illegal to bet with (say) Ladbrokes Betfair or corridors that are legal in the United Kingdom.
Answer
Sports betting is currently illegal in India, with the exception of horse racing and lottery. However, with the growth of the internet, many online sportsbooks and betting sites have become easily accessible to Indian residents. While it is illegal to participate in sports betting within the country, the legality of betting with a legal bookmaker outside of India is somewhat ambiguous.
According to the Public Gambling Act of 1867, any form of gambling or betting is considered illegal in India. However, there is no specific mention of online betting or using offshore sportsbooks in the law. This ambiguity has led to confusion over whether or not it is legal to bet on sports with a legal bookmaker outside of India.
It is important to note that the Reserve Bank of India has placed restrictions on the use of credit cards for online gambling transactions. This has made it difficult for Indian residents to deposit and withdraw money from online sportsbooks. Additionally, some online betting sites have even restricted access to Indian residents to avoid any potential legal issues.
While it is technically illegal to participate in sports betting in India, there have been no known cases of individuals being prosecuted for betting with offshore sportsbooks. However, it is still important for individuals to be cautious when engaging in online sports betting and to fully understand the potential legal risks involved.
In conclusion, while sports betting remains illegal in India, the legality of betting with a legal bookmaker outside of the country remains ambiguous. It is important for individuals to fully understand the potential legal risks and to be cautious when engaging in online sports betting.