In India, fantasy sports platforms have gained immense popularity, offering users the chance to create virtual teams and compete based on real-life sports performances. However, the legal status of fantasy sports varies across different states due to existing gambling laws. States like Assam, Odisha, Telangana, and Nagaland have explicitly banned or restricted fantasy sports operations, classifying them under gambling or betting activities. This has led to challenges for both operators and users in these regions, impacting the growth of the fantasy sports industry locally.
Despite the bans, fantasy sports continue to thrive in other parts of India, with platforms like Dream11 and My11Circle leading the market. These platforms emphasize skill-based gameplay to distinguish themselves from gambling, but regulatory uncertainties persist. Users in banned states often seek alternative options or use VPNs to access services, though this carries legal risks. The evolving legal landscape highlights the need for clear regulations to balance innovation with consumer protection in India\“s fantasy sports sector. |
