India’s MIB Issues Advisory Against Online Betting Promotions

India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a stern advisory urging social media influencers and endorsers to abstain from promoting or endorsing offshore online betting and gambling platforms. The advisory highlights the potential financial and socio-economic ramifications associated with online betting and gambling, particularly among the youth demographic.

MIB Issues Warning to Social Media Influencers and Advertising Intermediaries

The directive underscores the concern over the detrimental impact such promotions could have on consumers, especially impressionable young individuals. It comes in anticipation of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season set to commence on March 22.

The MIB’s advisory not only targets influencers but also extends to online advertising intermediaries. They are cautioned against disseminating promotional content directed at an Indian audience. 

Additionally, social media platforms have been urged to take proactive measures in educating their users about refraining from publishing such content.

While Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000 provides intermediaries with immunity from liability for third-party content hosted on their platforms, it also mandates prompt action upon receiving knowledge of unlawful activities. Failure to expeditiously remove or disable access to such content could void this immunity.

Gaming Federation CEO Supports Ministry’s Advisory Amid Rising Concerns

The ministry has reiterated the gravity of non-compliance, warning of potential legal repercussions under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Such consequences may include the removal or disabling of social media posts or accounts, in addition to punitive measures under relevant statutes.

Roland Landers, CEO of the All India Gaming Federation, commended the ministry’s advisory, emphasizing the need to deter celebrities from associating with illicit platforms, reported The Economic Times. He expressed his hope that the latest advisory would deter celebrities from engaging with those anti-national and illegal platforms, which, according to him, posed a threat to India’s economic and social fabric.

Furthermore, Landers highlighted the advisory’s potential to differentiate between legitimate Indian gaming operators prioritizing player protection and illegal entities. This distinction, he believes, will mitigate consumer harm and foster a safer gaming environment.

The ministry’s advisory echoes concerns raised earlier this month by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), which expressed reservations about celebrity endorsements of betting and gambling platforms. The CCPA emphasized the necessity for rigorous scrutiny of any such endorsements, whether direct or indirect.

Last year MIB also issued guidelines ahead of major cricket events, such as the Asia Cup and the Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup, warning against the promotion of online gambling platforms. Similarly, the government emphasized the risks associated with such promotions, including financial security threats and money laundering networks.