TN to take strict action against gambling advts

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday proposed to take stringent action against those who advertise online gambling and online gaming of chance, betting, etc., through hoardings, posters, banners, autorickshaw branding, etc., to promote their website/ apps in the State.

“Those who wish to share information about online gambling betting activities or offer suggestions on the regulation of online games or for any other grievances in this regard may please contact the web site ‘www.tnonlinegamingauthority.com’ and also use the authority email tnoga@tn.gov. in,” a release from State government read.

The Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Act, 2022 specifically provides for prohibition on playing online gambling and online games of chance, betting, etc.

Advertisement of online gambling services or online games of chance is prohibited under the said Act, which specifically provides that no person shall make or cause to make any advertisement in any media including electronic means of communication in the State of Tamil Nadu which directly or indirectly promotes or induces any person to indulge in online gambling with money or other stakes.

The said Act also specifies a penalty of imprisonment which may extend to 1 year on the fine amount which may extend to Rs5 Lakh or both for those persons/companies indulging in such advertisement.

If they repeat the same offence, they are liable for 1 to 3 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5 lakh to 10 lakh.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority has also given a direction that as per Consumer Protection Act, 2019 and other Acts, there is a ban on the advertisement of prohibited activities/services.