Online Betting Apps Continue to Thrive Despite Ban in Telangana
Even though online betting apps have been banned in Telangana since 2017, they are still widely used. Many people, especially young individuals, have suffered huge financial losses, and in some tragic cases, some have even taken their own lives.
Investigations have shown that many of these apps are run by people based in other countries, making it difficult for law enforcement to crack down on them. While these apps can be accessed in India, their operations are often controlled by organizers abroad. Reports suggest that some Indian nationals in Dubai are managing these apps, while the actual gaming activities are hosted in countries like the Philippines, where betting is legal.
One reason these apps have become so popular is the promotion by social media influencers. Many influencers advertise these apps without considering the consequences. “These apps are gaining popularity among young people because influencers are irresponsibly promoting them,” said D. Kavitha, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Cybercrime.
Recently, the Cyberabad Police filed a case against YouTuber Harsha Sai, accusing him of encouraging his followers to gamble, which led to significant financial losses. Other influencers, including Vishnu Priya, Ritu Choudhary, Tasty Teja, and Kiran Goud, have also been questioned for promoting betting platforms.
In response to this growing issue, Hyderabad police have intensified their investigations. They have issued notices to several influencers and filed cases under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act. However, since the main organizers of these apps are based overseas, law enforcement faces significant challenges in shutting them down completely.
To fight the spread of illegal betting apps, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has introduced geo-fencing technology, which helps block access to these platforms. Since January 2025, the agency has successfully blocked 133 apps operated by Indian companies. “We are taking strict action against these illegal platforms. So far, TGCSB has registered 385 cases and is actively pursuing legal action,” said a senior official from the bureau.
Senior IPS Officer VC Sajjanar, who is also the Managing Director of TGSRTC, has expressed serious concerns about the dangers of online betting. He emphasized that these apps are destroying lives and urged social media influencers to stop promoting them for personal gain. He warned that influencers’ false claims of easy money are deceiving young people into gambling.
Sajjanar also advised young people to stay away from betting apps, saying, “Greed can destroy your future. Be cautious of false promises, as they are often signs of fraud and deception.”
For those who come across illegal betting platforms, authorities have set up a WhatsApp helpline at 8712672222 to report such activities.
