The Indian Premier League, the top-tier cricket competition, has changed the sports landscape in the country. The competition popularized the discipline globally and attracted millions of fans and bettors to the screens. Indians are the passionate betting enthusiasts, so many prefer to complement match-watching with wagering on their favorite team. But many wonder whether this risky activity is legal in the country? As the sector is transferring online, most are excited about the digital laws. India’s evolving industry regulations are a complex issue, so it’s time to figure out whether you can legally bet on the IPL.
A Federal Law With State Power
Currently, India still relies on the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits traditional gaming houses and all related entertainment types. Unsurprisingly, this document is outdated: no one could ever think of online sports betting over a century ago. In 2025, industry regulations need improvements, which is the number one challenge that the government should address.
Now, individual states hold the power to regulate the sports betting and casino sector independently, which is why requirements and laws vary in different regions. As India doesn’t have a central regulatory authority, operating domestic gambling platforms is impossible, but this can change soon.
Offshore Betting: A Legal Grey Zone
While local platforms are not allowed due to the lack of regulations, there are no specific laws controlling overseas platforms. States like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra imposed strict bans on in-country services, prohibiting all types of sports wagering, including IPL predictions. However, there are still no specific regulations on foreign operators.
This creates a grey zone for offshore bookmakers that perceive India as a fast-growing target market. According to the latest reports, over 130 million locals are engaged in the iGaming sector, and this number continues to grow. The establishment of the Indian Premier League and nationwide passion for cricket increased interest in online betting services. Many users join overseas betting platforms to try their luck and wager on the IPL 2025 without restrictions.
Practical Risks of Joining Offshore Betting Platforms
Although many international gambling companies operate under the control of offshore regulators, Indian players must be double-attentive when selecting a betting destination. Since the country lacks mechanisms to ban foreign bookmakers, both legal and illegal service providers can enter the market. If any responsible body does not control a sportsbook, users can face the following risks:
- Financial fraud and scams. Unregulated platforms often attract punters with higher odds and generous promotions, but they can avoid processing withdrawals or just disappear with players’ funds
- Money laundering and tax abuse. Some online bookmakers engage in illegal practices, which makes them completely prohibited not only in India but also globally, so users must thoroughly check the operator’s reputation
- Cybersecurity threats. Many unregulated platforms lack data protection measures, putting players at risk of data theft, phishing attempts, and other types of digital fraud
- Lack of consumer protection. Reputable platforms safeguard their members from falling victim to compulsive disorders and provide timely support, while illegal sites completely ignore this problem
- Weak dispute resolution. The lack of licensing from regulatory bodies means that players will hardly receive high-quality assistance when they have questions or problematic issues on the betting site
Many users prefer to ignore these problems, attracted to generous promotions during the IPL season. However, all the threats are real and can result in unpleasant consequences. Online bookmakers that disappear with players’ money and never pay out winnings are not rare, so checking licensing details and security protocols is critical.
Taxation: Betting Income Isn’t Free Money
Despite the lack of clear online betting regulations, India has specific taxation requirements. Income from casinos and bookmakers is taxable, so the lucky winners must pay 30% of their cash prizes to the country’s budget. These profits are categorized as “casual income,” and no exceptions are implied. India is currently working on advanced iGaming laws that may bring updates to this point. Remember that betting on the IPL also falls under this requirement, and punters should calculate their potential winning considering the tax they’ll pay.
Understand Laws and Double-Check Bookmaker Policies
Finding a reputable online bookmaker to place predictions on the IPL isn’t complicated in India. With the quickly evolving digital infrastructure and a variety of fast and reliable payment systems, locals can easily access top betting services. The country doesn’t have unified industry regulations in 2025, so learning the peculiarities in your region is mandatory. If online betting is strictly prohibited, don’t try to cheat and deceive the system, as you risk being penalized.
The risk of fraudulent operators is also high in states where iGaming is not banned. Users should opt for international bookmakers with excellent reputations that provide legal and fair services in different regions. Take some time to compare online sportsbooks and find the most beneficial odds on the upcoming Indian Premier League matches to maximize advantages when following this cricket competition.