Uttarakhand Public Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026 | 11 Mar 2026

Why in News? 

The Cabinet of Uttarakhand has approved the Uttarakhand Public Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026 to curb illegal gambling and betting activities in the state. The proposed law aims to replace the colonial-era Public Gambling Act, 1867 with stricter provisions and penalties.  

Key Points: 

• Objective: The bill seeks to control illegal gambling, betting networks and gambling houses by introducing stricter legal provisions and enhanced penalties across the state. 
  • The legislation will replace the Public Gambling Act, 1867, which was considered outdated and ineffective in dealing with modern betting and organised gambling activities. 
• Penalties for Gambling: 
  • Gambling in public places such as streets or lanes may lead to up to 3 months imprisonment or a fine of ₹5,000, or both. 
  • Organising gambling activities inside a residence may result in up to 2 years imprisonment or a fine of ₹10,000. 
  • Running gambling dens may lead up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 lakh, while organised betting networks may face 3–5 years imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 lakh. 
• Enforcement Powers: The bill empowers the police to take stricter action against gambling activities, including raids, arrests, and seizure of illegal assets linked to betting operations.  
  • The legislation covers both physical gambling houses and modern organised betting networks, ensuring broader regulatory coverage. 
• Focus: The government aims to reduce social problems such as financial distress, crime, and exploitation associated with gambling activities. 
• Significance: The proposed law aims to strengthen law enforcement, curb organised betting syndicates, and address the social and economic issues associated with gambling in the state.