There are several parts of the world where playing casino games and other forms of gambling are outlawed. In these places, violation of the law by indulging in gambling and betting practice comes with a conviction. So, how about the legality of playing online casino games in India? In this piece, we will examine India’s stance on citizens playing at online casinos. If you are up for knowing a thing or two about this country’s policies regarding online casinos, you are at the right place.
India’s History With Online Casino Licensing
Apparently, formulating laws to approve the licensing of online casinos in India has proven difficult. This is due to cultural, religious, and civil underlying factors. History has proven how any attempt to get such approval will not be so easy. An example is what happened in the state of Sikkim in 2010. In that period, certain policymakers identified reasons to allow online casino sites to get state licensing to operate and be regulated by the government. The major reason for this decision was the financial and economic benefits it poised.
As at that time, the state was willing to give out three licenses, but everything eventually fell through. Despite the huge positive economic impact, the decision to get the state license did not see the light of the day. However, it is safe to say Indians love to gamble. This is proven with the profit actualized by people that run illegal offline betting and gambling venues. Also, the consistent clamor by certain sports persons to readdress the legality of sports betting all across the country proves this.
Is Playing Casino Legal in India?
The legality of gambling is relative in India. This is because the state governments have been empowered by the central government to pass laws concerning this. For this reason, while the act is considered outlawed in certain parts, some stated allow gambling but require that the practice be well regulated.
Currently, only three states allow the running of gambling establishments. They are Goa, Sikkim and Daman. Even at that, a state like Goa is more relaxed in its regulation than others. This is why there are more establishments like casinos there. To know more about the legality of gambling in India, news article gives you more information.
Are Indians Legally Permitted to Play Online Casino?
While the legality of gambling is a sensitive and relative subject among the Indian policymakers and masses, Indians take clarification very seriously. On that note, there are certain subjects about gambling that have not been clarified by the law. As a result, indulging in such an act would not be considered unlawful or worthy of a judicial conviction.
The subject of playing online casinos and activities on gambling sites falls well under this category. While there are defined laws in certain parts to prohibit the establishment and patronage of gambling ventures, the same does not apply to online gambling. As a result, online casino sites are beginning to take advantage of the productive Indian market by extending their offers to Indians.
Considering that India has a sensitive disposition towards accepting gambling activities, a casino site set up and operated outside the country would pass as regulated by a foreign government and not subject to Indian laws. Thus, no conviction can be brought against such persons who play online casino games. Therefore, it is not illegal. However, the acceptance of any gambling site by the Indian populace is dependent on some factors addressed in the next segment.
Criteria to Watch Out for When Choosing an Online Casino
As an Indian, below are some factors to consider when choosing an online casino:
Online Casinos Have to Incorporate Indian Themes
For an online casino site to win the hearts and minds of Indians, it must be considerate about the player’s interest. For instance, the language of communication, currency accepted, songs and entertainment options used should sit well with the average Indian. On that note, there are several safe casino sites in India that are great at this, with huge patronage to show for it.
Online Casino with Good Reviews and Referral Are Better Accepted
Even outside of India, this is what many punters look out for. They visit credible online casino review sites, such as this well-regarded website for a professional evaluation of online casinos. The findings on these sites help them make what they consider the right decision. On that note, any online casino that wants to have huge patronage in the country must take service delivery seriously.
Formidable Data Security by Casino Sites Is Non-Negotiable
Generally, this is a major concern for many online players. They need to be certain that the online casino site is well protected against the illicit activities of hackers. As a result, it is important for casino sites targeting the Indian market to step up their game in this regard. The platform must engage a formidable state-of-the-art software protection for this reason. This is very important for Indians as there are lots of ICT knowledgeable individuals.
Indians Appreciate Online Casinos That Offer Amazing Bonuses
The kind of bonuses up for grabs is one of the major yardsticks online casino review sites in India use in ranking these sites. For this reason, casino sites targeting the Indian populace should be open to rewarding players with amazing bonuses.
Indians Love Online Casinos with a Wide Range of Game Options
Just as it is in top-notch casino venues, the online casino site should have a wide range of entertaining games to be played. Some options include Poker, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette.
Ease in Depositing and Withdrawing Funds in Important
For any online casino site to be successful in the country, this is non-negotiable. The ideal gambling site should present some payment and withdrawal options for players. Generally, it has been noticed that Indian punters lean towards e-payment options.
The Site Should Have an Interface That Is Easy to Use
Players here want a mobile and/or desktop interface that is fun and easy to use. They want to be able to easily access features available to them. On that note, any online casino wanting to stake a claim in the Indian market must understand and implement this.
As seen in this article, while offline gambling generates so much controversy and policies across states in the country, the same does not apply to online casinos and other gambling sites. However, the subject of popular acceptance of any online casino by Indians brings about certain aspects discussed here. Finally, Indian players should ensure that any used site is licensed by the appropriate foreign licensing board.