IPL betting is not legal in India under the 2025 Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act. However, some small differences still exist in how the law treats different types of games.
Traditional sports betting is illegal. The debate over whether a game requires “skill” or is purely “chance” changed after the 2025 Act took effect.
Below is a detailed take on what is illegal and what the consequences are of doing illegal activities for IPL betting.
Is IPL Betting Legal in India?
Here are the banned activities and the law that bans them:
| Betting Category | Legal Status | Regulation/Law |
|---|---|---|
| IPL/Cricket Betting | Illegal | Online Gaming Act, 2025 |
| Online Casinos | Illegal | PROG Act, 2025 |
| Traditional Sports Betting | Illegal | Online Gaming Act, 2025 |
| Real-Money Fantasy Sports | Restricted/Illegal | Online Gaming Act, 2025 |
| In-Person Casino | Cricket Illegal | State-Specific Gaming Acts |
Before 2025, India followed the 1867 Public Gambling Act. Different states had different rules under this old system, which created a lot of confusion. PROGA 2025 brought everything under one central authority.
Celebrities and social media influencers are not allowed to promote betting apps anymore. If they do promote these apps, they will face serious punishment.
The government uses Section 69A of the IT Act to block foreign betting websites and apps. When a site offers betting services to Indian users, the authorities can order internet providers to block access to that site.
As discussions around the legality of IPL betting in India continue, many users look for platforms that offer quick and easy access without complicated processes. An instant IPL ID allows cricket fans from around the world to get started quickly and follow IPL matches more closely. Such services cater to a global audience, making it easier for users to stay engaged with the tournament while understanding the legal landscape.
Punishment for IPL Betting in India
If you break the betting law in India, you will face serious consequences.
| Offender | First Offense | Repeat Offense |
|---|---|---|
| App Operators | 3 Years Jail + ₹1 Cr Fine | 5 Years Jail + ₹2 Cr Fine |
| Promoters/Influencers | 2 Years Jail + ₹50 L Fine | Increased Jail + Higher Fine |
| Financial Intermediaries | License Revocation + Fine | Criminal Prosecution |
Section 112 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS):
It specifically deals with “unauthorised betting.” If you run a betting operation, promote it, or help process payments for it, you can go to jail and pay heavy fines.
Cricket Betting Legal Countries
Some countries around the world allow cricket betting, but they have proper rules and systems in place.
List:
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- South Africa
- New Zealand
Keep this in mind: Using a UK betting site while you are sitting in India is still illegal under Indian law. Your location matters, not the website’s location.
Risks of Using Offshore IPL Betting Sites in India
Many people try to use foreign betting websites to get around Indian laws. This comes with very big risks.
- Financial Risk:
Indian banks and UPI payment providers are now required by law to flag and block all transactions to betting platforms. Your money could get stuck in the system. You might never get it back.
- Legal Consequences:
You can face serious penalties under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for what the law calls “unauthorised betting.” The police can track your transactions through your bank. You could be fined heavily or even sent to jail.
- Cybersecurity:
Offshore sites are not regulated or controlled by Indian authorities. If these sites steal your personal data or refuse to pay you the money you won, you have no legal way to get help. Many of these sites are complete scams designed to steal your money.
Taxes on IPL Betting Winnings
Even if you somehow receive money from betting (which is illegal to begin with), the government still wants to collect taxes from you.
| Tax Type | Rate | Applicable On |
|---|---|---|
| GST | 28% | Full Face Value of Deposit/Entry Fee |
| Income Tax (TDS) | 30% | Net Winnings at the time of withdrawal |
| Surcharge/Cess | Varies | Applied on top of the 30% Tax |
The government takes 30% tax directly from your winnings when you try to withdraw the money. This is called TDS. On top of that, there is a 28% GST on the money you initially put in, which is your deposit or entry fee.
Additional charges like surcharge and cess can also apply. These depend on your total income level.
Even though betting itself is illegal, the tax department will not ignore the money you made. You are still required to pay tax on any winnings you receive.
Disclaimer: This article uses the most recent data available online. Laws and rules may change or differ over time. Always check current regulations.
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Conclusion: IPL Betting Is Not Legal In India
The 2026 IPL season has become the most regulated season ever in India. The government has put strict controls in place. Banks actively block payments to betting sites, and websites get banned regularly.
Your best option is to completely stay away from real-money betting. If you want to have fun, you can use free-to-play games or social platforms that do not involve real money.
Do not fall for offshore sites that promise you can get rich quickly. These sites are both risky and illegal to use from India.
FAQ
No. Betting on IPL matches is illegal under the Online Gaming Act, 2025.
No betting app is safe or legal in India. All real-money cricket betting apps are banned.
None. There is no legal cricket betting app in India. All are illegal.
Not right now. The 2025 law banned it. Future changes depend on new laws.
CSK (Chennai Super Kings) faced a ban years ago for betting links. They are now back in IPL.
You cannot legally bet on IPL in India. All betting is illegal and risky.
