Understanding the Legality of Online Betting in India

**Current Legal Landscape**:
- **Allowed States**: Goa, Sikkim, Nagaland (regulated markets)
- **Grey Areas**: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu
- **Prohibited**: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh

**Key Regulations**:
1. Public Gambling Act 1867 (amended 1977)
2. Information Technology Act 2000
3. State-specific gambling laws

**Safe Betting Practices**:
- Use internationally licensed operators
- Avoid street bookmakers (illegal in most states)
- Verify GST number on betting platforms
- File taxes on winnings (30% tax + 4% cess)

**Recent Developments**:
- 2024 National Gaming Policy draft
- Proposed 28% GST on online betting
- Mandatory KYC norms for all operators
- Responsible gaming initiatives (self-exclusion tools)