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Is Fantasy Sports Legal In India?

Fantasy Sports has become extremely popular all around the world, with its popularity in India skyrocketing after Dream11 took off. The rise of sports gaming onlinein India has transformed the way millions engage with their favourite sports, particularly cricket, by combining traditional fandom with strategic gameplay and financial stakes. This article talks about the rise of fantasy sports in India and the legality of it all despite India being a stickler as to what is and is not gambling.

Is Fantasy Sports Legal In India?

Credit: Telegraph India

The concept of fantasy sports in India began gaining traction in the early 2000s, but it wasn’t until the advent of mobile technology and online platforms that it truly took off. In 2001, the first official fantasy sport platform, IndiaFantasy, was launched. However, the launch of Dream11 in 2008 catalysed the online sports gaming phenomenon in the country. There was barely anyone who even had the notion of fantasy sport being a thing before Dream11 made it take off and become a huge thing in Indian sports.

In 2018, a significant milestone in the legal recognition of fantasy sport occurred when the Supreme Court of India classified these games as “games of skill” rather than “games of chance.” This distinction is pivotal as it determines the legality of wagering on platforms. According to Indian law, while gambling on games of chance is largely prohibited, games of skill, including fantasy sports, are permitted, provided they comply with specific guidelines.

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India’s federal structure allows individual states to define their gaming laws. Consequently, while some states endorse fantasy sports, others impose strict regulations or outright bans. For instance, states like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have enacted laws prohibiting online sports gaming, causing confusion among operators and players regarding where they can legally participate. We have written an article about the Indian states that have banned or restricted the use of apps like Dream 11. You can find this article here.

In conclusion, fantasy sport in India represent a fusion of technology, sports, and entertainment, allowing fans to experience games in a unique way. With platforms like Dream11 leading the charge, the industry is set to flourish, capturing the hearts of millions and reshaping the sports-viewing experience across the nation. As engagement continues to grow, future developments in technology and regulation will likely define the next chapter in this exciting sector. The fact that the Indian courts ruled in favour of it being a game of skill rather than a game of chance is a huge boost and is the main reason why online sports gaming has developed so much in India.

FAQ’s

Is fantasy sports legal in India?

Yes, it is legal in India as they are considered games of skill rather than gambling under Indian laws.

Which laws regulate fantasy sports in India?

It is regulated by the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which exempts games of skill from the definition of gambling.

Are all fantasy sports platforms legal in India?

Only platforms certified by industry bodies like the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS) and complying with local laws are considered legal.

Why are fantasy sports legal in India?

Indian courts have ruled that fantasy sports involve substantial skill in team selection, making them distinct from gambling.

Are there any restrictions on fantasy sports in India?

Some Indian states, such as Assam, Odisha, and Telangana, prohibit fantasy sports, citing local gambling laws.

Do fantasy sports winnings get taxed in India?

Yes, the winnings are subject to taxation, and players must pay 30% tax on earnings above a specified threshold.

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