Dehradun, April 30, 2025 — The Uttarakhand government is preparing to introduce its own version of a Gaming Act, a move that could bring major changes to how online and offline gaming, including betting, is regulated in the state. This development follows the Centre’s 2023 advisory that encouraged all states to create their own frameworks for handling gaming-related activities.
The proposed act is still in the planning stages, but it’s expected to clearly define the legal status of different types of games — particularly separating games of skill from those based on chance. This distinction could directly affect whether popular activities like cricket betting will be treated as gambling.
In recent years, online betting and fantasy sports have seen a huge rise in participation, especially during big cricket events. However, their legal status has remained somewhat unclear in many states. With the new act, Uttarakhand aims to remove that ambiguity.
A senior official involved in the drafting process shared, “This law is about bringing structure and accountability to a fast-growing industry. It’s not just about banning or allowing; it’s about protecting users and creating fair rules.”
Some Indian states, including Karnataka and Meghalaya, have already implemented their own gaming laws, tailoring them to local concerns and economic considerations. Uttarakhand appears to be following a similar path, though the exact clauses — especially concerning sports betting — are yet to be revealed.
The act is also expected to touch upon licensing, data protection, age restrictions, and penalties for unauthorized gaming platforms. Industry insiders believe this could open doors for regulated growth while keeping harmful practices in check.
For now, it remains to be seen how the act will classify cricket betting — whether as an illegal form of gambling or as a legitimate game of skill under specific conditions. As discussions continue, stakeholders from across the gaming sector are watching closely.
What’s clear is that Uttarakhand is ready to take a big step in regulating a space that has so far existed in a legal grey area — aiming for a balanced approach that considers both innovation and consumer safety.
