From the historical context and current legal framework to national security implications, and detailed recommendations, a report titled ‘Curbing Betting and Gambling in India: A National Security Imperative’ was presented during a roundtable discussion by The Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA) under the Rashtriya Raksha University along with India Future Foundation, a tech-policy think tank.
Reportedly, luminaries from the government, public sector, United Nations, research bodies, and advisory groups were present in the discussion. From what it is understood, the journey to curbing illegal betting and gambling activities in India is a challenge that claims to require efforts from various stakeholders. The recommendations mentioned in this report are claimed to create a comprehensive approach to combating illegal betting and gambling in India. The report also claims to evaluate the existing legal and regulatory frameworks, identifying gaps that need to be addressed.
“These activities are not just recreational; they are conduits for numerous illicit activities, including money laundering, terror financing, and organised crime. Such entities pose a major threat to national security by exploiting the loopholes in the existing legal system. Amending our legal framework to establish a centralised response and enforcement mechanism, including appropriate laws to curtail such activities, is crucial to safeguard our systems.” Nidhish Bhatnagar, director – School of Applied Sciences, Engineering, Technology, and MD, SASTRA said.
“The unlawful activities and user harm caused by illegal betting and gambling platforms requires a effort on the part of the Government of India. The recommendations in the report have been designed to address the national security risks emanating from the practices employed by these platforms, which continue to operate with impunity,” Kanishk Gaur, founder, India Future Foundation, said.