Allahabad High Court Directs Formation of State Panel to Examine the Regulation of Online Gaming and Betting

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to form a High-Powered Committee to examine the need for a law regulating online gaming and betting.

The Court noted that the Public Gambling Act, 1867, is outdated and ineffective in dealing with digital platforms, cross-border payments, gaming addiction, and online fraud.

The court emphasized the need for tech-sensitive legislation and mentioned the ambiguous legal status of fantasy sports under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution. 

The Court suggested an interim review of penalties under current laws till the new laws are enacted and scheduled the next hearing for July 8, 2024.