Fantasy sports betting has gained significant popularity in India in recent years, with platforms like Dream11 leading the market. The legality of fantasy sports betting in India is governed by the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which generally prohibits gambling activities. However, fantasy sports are considered games of skill rather than chance, making them exempt from this law.
Indian fantasy sports platforms operate under this skill-based exception, allowing users to create virtual teams and compete based on real-life player performances. Major platforms like Dream11, My11Circle, and MPL have established strong user bases by offering cricket, football, and kabaddi fantasy contests. These platforms generate revenue through contest entry fees and advertising partnerships.
The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, with several states like Tamil Nadu initially banning fantasy sports before courts overturned these decisions. The Supreme Court of India has consistently upheld that fantasy sports require substantial skill, knowledge, and judgment, distinguishing them from pure gambling activities. |
