After enforcing prohibition on liquor, the Bihar government is now preparing to tighten its grip on gambling and betting by introducing a stringent new law during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the state legislature. The proposed Bihar Gambling (Prohibition) Bill aims to curb both offline and online gambling activities, with a special focus on online betting platforms.
Under the proposed legislation, online gambling and betting will be treated as criminal offences. The government has proposed strict punishments, including imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh for a first-time offence.
Repeat offenders will face even harsher penalties. The bill proposes imprisonment of up to seven years along with a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh for those found guilty of committing the offence again.
The proposed law also seeks to widen accountability by taking action against individuals who provide bank accounts or digital wallets for gambling transactions. Those found facilitating such activities could also face legal action under the new legislation.
In addition, the bill empowers authorities to act against the promotion and advertisement of online gambling and betting platforms. Individuals or entities involved in publicity or marketing of such activities may also face prosecution.
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