Today, On 23rd May, The Supreme Court heard a plea from Dr. KA Paul seeking a ban or regulation of betting apps. Observing rising concerns, the Court said, “Society needs to be corrected,” and asked the Centre to file its response.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India heard a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by evangelist Dr. KA Paul.
He requested the Court to either ban or regulate all betting applications in the country, including both online and offline platforms.
The bench was headed by Justice Surya Kant along with Justice KV Viswanathan
The bench said,
“In the name of IPL, a lot of people are betting and indulging in gambling. This is a serious issue.”
Dr. KA Paul told the Court,
“I represent countless grieving parents who have lost their children… In Telangana alone, 1,023 suicides linked to this issue… Over 25 Bollywood and Tollywood celebrities recklessly promoting.”
He also highlighted that several FIRs have been filed across the country and said,
“Of India’s 140 crore population, 30 crore are being unlawfully exploited… This is a blatant violation of fundamental rights under Article 21.”
In response to his arguments, Justice Surya Kant remarked,
“The Court has already addressed this matter. These are voluntary actions by individuals—what remedy exists? While we fundamentally agree such activities should cease… Society needs to be corrected.”
Also Read: Actor Sahil Khan Sent to Police Custody in Rs. 15,000 Crore ‘Mahadev Betting App Scandal’
Dr. Paul further pointed out that even top-level celebrities are involved in promoting betting platforms.
He said,
“Even god of cricket is promoting these platforms… and fans blindly follow…”
Justice Surya Kant then responded,
“Precisely because authorities know IPL viewership masks rampant illegal betting… We’ll direct the Union government to explain its enforcement measures.”
Taking note of the serious concerns raised in the petition, the Supreme Court issued a notice to the Union of India.
Justice Surya Kant ordered,
“Issue notice to Union of India.”
The Court has now sought a response from the Centre on how it is enforcing laws against illegal betting and whether there is any regulatory framework to monitor such platforms, especially those endorsed by influential celebrities.