Govt issues fresh guidelines against online gambling ads ahead of Asia Cup 2023

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Also Read: Govt issues advisory against real-money gaming ads In its advisory, the I&B ministry asked media entities, advertising intermediaries and social media platforms to ‘immediately’ refrain from showing ads and promotional content on betting/gambling in any form. Failure in following the guideline will lead to legal action against those entities. Also Read: Centre intensifies drive on betting ads for Asia, World Cup “Failure to adhere to this advisory may invite appropriate action from the Government of India under various statutes," government officials aware of the matter said, reported HT.

It was observed that the promotion of betting and online gambling platforms spiked during cricket matches and other major sports events. That's why, this time, the centre has warned media organisations and social media platforms to refrain from showing such advertisements. Also Read: Parliament clears 28% GST on online gaming, casinos, horse racing clubs “It is also observed that there is a tendency to spike promotion of such betting and gambling platforms during a major sporting event, especially cricket, and one such important international event is beginning in a few days from now," said the advisory.

Notably, Asia Cup cicket league is scheduled to begin by the end of August. Moreover, ICC World Cup 2023 will also be held in India this time. The advisory also mentioned the linkage of gambling networks with mechanism associated with money laundering networks, according to the notice quoted by HT.