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September 25, 2025
India’s sudden crackdown on online gambling and fantasy gaming has sent shockwaves through the country’s gaming and sports sectors, creating confusion among users and causing panic among platforms. The government introduced the ban citing concerns over rising addiction rates, increasing incidents of online fraud, and allegations of terror financing connected to some gaming platforms.
Despite these measures, players continue to engage with the games. Adarsh Sharma, a Mumbai-based advertising professional and avid fantasy cricket player, told local media that online gaming has become a habit for many. He emphasized that people will find ways to keep playing regardless of restrictions. Before the ban, the industry reportedly involved over 450 million users and generated approximately ₹19,000 crore (about US$2.3 billion) annually.
The ban’s impact has been significant. Many users are reportedly turning to underground options, including black market apps and illegal betting networks. Fantasy gaming platforms have reduced advertising budgets and some have even ended major sponsorship agreements, such as a ₹350 crore (US$43 million) jersey deal with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Experts express concerns that these changes could negatively affect the future valuation of Indian Premier League (IPL) media rights, which are set for renewal in 2027. One gaming policy analyst from Bengaluru pointed out that shutting down fantasy platforms affects not only gamers but also the broader cricket ecosystem, advertising revenues, and the technology sector.
Looking ahead, industry insiders warn that without a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework, the ban may drive millions of users into unregulated and potentially unsafe environments rather than addressing the underlying issues. Some experts suggest that adopting a licensing model or implementing state-specific regulations, similar to systems used in countries like the United Kingdom, could provide a more balanced and effective approach compared to an outright ban.
For Indian gamers, although many official platforms have ceased operations, enthusiasm for fantasy sports and online betting remains strong. Whether this situation will lead to meaningful regulatory reforms or push users further into the grey market remains uncertain.
