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Opinion trading platform Probo Media Technologies Private Limited has suffered another legal setback, with the Supreme Court refusing to entertain its plea to de-freeze a bank account containing over ₹100 crore. The account was frozen by Haryana Police following allegations of gambling and cheating against the company and its directors.

The freezing order stems from a First Information Report (FIR) filed on March 25, 2025, at Sector 50 Police Station in Gurugram, based on a complaint by local resident Abhishek Jain. Jain claims he lost approximately ₹20,000 on the Probo app, which allows users to place wagers on the outcomes of various real-world events with "Yes" or "No" answers. According to the complaint, users are “lured and induced into gambling and betting” under the pretense of opinion trading.

In the Supreme Court, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Probo, argued that freezing the company's entire bank account due to a ₹20,000 transaction was a disproportionate response. He added that the freeze had brought Probo’s business operations to a standstill.

However, a Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Augustine George Masih noted that, although the alleged offence was minor, the case was already under review by the High Court. The bench advised the company to approach the High Court’s vacation bench for earlier relief before the July hearing.

The FIR has invoked Section 13 of the Public Gambling Act, 1867, and Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to cheating and dishonest delivery of property. Named in the complaint are Probo directors Ashish Garg, Sachin Subashchandra Gupta, and Shweta Sharma.

Opinion trading platforms SportsBaazi, Probo and TradeX were first banned in Chhattisgarh. It was later prohibited in Haryana. Multiple platforms including MPL Opinio, SportsBaazi and TradeX were forced to shut down their operations in the state. 

Probo had earlier approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking to quash the FIR and requesting interim protection. Despite hearing the matter on May 22, 2025, Justice Sukhvinder Kaur declined to offer any stay or interim relief, instead issuing a notice to the Haryana government and scheduling the next hearing for July 15, 2025.

This is not the first time Probo has faced regulatory action. In January 2025, Rajasthan Police directed Yes Bank to block transactions linked to the platform after a complaint of fraud involving ₹5,000 was registered at Jyoti Nagar Police Station.

Advocate Prateek Kasliwal had raised broader concerns about such platforms. “These apps allow users to bet on everything from political events to asset prices,” he said. “Similar platforms are banned in countries like Singapore, the UK, and Taiwan due to concerns over gambling laws and risks of electoral interference.”

Kasliwal had also warned that the current cases might only scratch the surface of a larger issue. “Many such platforms operate in regulatory grey areas, and they could be putting millions of users at financial risk,” he added.

Earlier, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a public advisory warning investors against engaging with Opinion Trading Platforms. These platforms, according to SEBI, allow users to enter into arrangements where payouts are determined by the outcome of a yes/no proposition—essentially betting on the occurrence or non-occurrence of future events.

SEBI emphasized that such platforms often mimic legitimate investment avenues by using financial market terminology like "profits," "stop loss," and "trading," which may mislead users into believing they are participating in regulated securities markets.

In its official statement, SEBI clarified that these platforms generally do not fall under its regulatory purview as the underlying activity does not involve trading in securities. Consequently, no investor protection mechanisms applicable to securities markets would cover transactions made on these platforms.

The regulator further noted that since these platforms are neither recognized stock exchanges nor registered with SEBI, any trading of securities—if it occurs on these platforms—would be considered illegal. In such cases, both the platforms and their participants may face regulatory action.

Storyboard18 reached out to Probo for a comment, they have declined to share an official statement. 

SC refuses to De-freeze ₹100 Cr account of opinion trading platform Probo

As Karnataka inches closer to unveiling a comprehensive regulatory framework for the online real money gaming (RMG) industry, the state government has transferred a key officer who was leading consultations with industry stakeholders.

Bhushan Gulabrao Borase, a 2009 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, who was serving as the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Cyber Crime and Narcotics, has been appointed as the Commissioner of Belagavi City. Borase played a crucial role in initial discussions with various gaming bodies and was seen as a pivotal figure in shaping the upcoming policy framework.

The transfer comes at a critical juncture as the state is set to introduce a whitelisting mechanism aimed at legitimizing RMG operators, amid growing concerns over illegal online betting activities. Sources familiar with the development said that despite the officer’s transfer, the state remains committed to rolling out the new framework by the end of the year.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/exclusive-karnataka-govt-to-introduce-whitelist-for-real-money-gaming-operators-62968.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: Karnataka govt to introduce whitelist for Real Money Gaming operators</a>

As per official data, Karnataka Police have registered 897 cases related to online betting in the past three years. This includes 492 cases in 2023, 382 in 2024, and 23 cases between January and March of 2025. 

The transfer of Borase raises questions about continuity and leadership in the policy’s development, especially as Karnataka attempts to become the first Indian state to implement a whitelisting model for RMG operators. Industry representatives expressed hope that the initiative would continue without disruption. “Karnataka is taking a progressive approach,” said one stakeholder. “Whitelisting legitimate companies and cracking down on illegal operators will support sector growth.”

Speaking after concluding a two-day review meeting with all deputy commissioners and Zilla Panchayat chief executives, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge and Law Minister H K Patil were discussing ways to tackle online betting. “We are discussing if a law should be introduced. We will arrive at a conclusion soon,” Siddaramaiah said. In a statement, Siddaramaiah said youngsters are “falling prey” to the “cricket betting business”.

“Indiscriminate action should be taken without succumbing to any pressure. Deputy Commissioners are fully responsible for this,” Siddaramaiah said.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/karnataka-eyes-year-end-gaming-regulation-but-will-it-abandon-its-sc-battle-61945.htm">Read More: Karnataka eyes year-end gaming regulation, but will it abandon its SC battle?</a>

Karnataka government also intends to establish a clear legal distinction between skill-based gaming and gambling. However, it remains uncertain what measures will be taken against offshore betting platforms, whose operations have exponentially grown in the past year.

The upcoming framework will also include provisions for age-gating, grievance redressal mechanisms, and player support systems—part of a broader "consumer-first" strategy aimed at curbing the influence of illegal betting and gambling services.

According to Digital India Foundation report, four betting platforms—Parimatch, Stake, 1xBet, and Battery Bet—received 1.6 billion visits in just three months, between October and December 2024. Social media platforms like Facebook, Meta, and Telegram drove 42.8 million visits to these four platforms during the same period. While deposits in illegal betting and gambling are exceeding 100 billion dollars per year and are growing at an annual rate of 30%.

On April 8, key representatives from the RMG sector—including officials from the All India Gaming Federation, the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports, and the E-Gaming Federation—met with Karnataka’s Home Minister S. Parameshwara and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge to discuss the impending regulations.

“Karnataka is taking a progressive approach toward regulating the RMG industry,” said one industry representative. “Whitelisting legitimate companies and cracking down on illegal operators will definitely support sector growth. If implemented it will make Karnataka, the first state to implement whitelisting of RMG companies in this complex regulatory landscape.”

Another stakeholder, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that a draft of the new framework is expected within the next couple of months, followed by a stakeholder consultation phase. “The Karnataka government is targeting an end-of-year rollout,” the person said.

If executed effectively, Karnataka’s move could set a precedent for other states, paving the way for a more structured and investment-friendly gaming industry across India. With regulatory clarity on the horizon, industry players are hopeful that a balanced framework will foster innovation while safeguarding users and curbing illegal operations.

This effort marks a shift from the state's previous stance. In 2021, Karnataka introduced the Karnataka Police (Amendment) Bill, which sought to ban all forms of online gambling—excluding lotteries and horse racing—by removing the distinction between games of skill and games of chance. The law inadvertently included skill-based gaming startups under its purview.

However, the Karnataka High Court struck down most provisions of the bill in February 2022, deeming them unconstitutional. The state appealed to the Supreme Court, which issued notices to various gaming companies and industry bodies. The case remains pending.

"There is nothing to regulate them so far. They have agreed to the introduction of a licence system and a regulation as per law. Once the draft is submitted, we will bring in a new law," Home Minister Parameshwara said, adding that a committee is currently drafting the policy.

Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology Priyank Kharge had said that the government is mulling over bringing the entire online gaming, real money gaming under a legal parameter.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra is also working on its own regulatory framework for online gaming, signalling a broader trend toward structured oversight in India’s RMG space. Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home Affairs, Yogesh Kadam, recently told the state’s Legislative Council that the government is developing tougher laws to combat cybercrime and financial fraud linked to online platforms. “A uniform policy and stricter legal measures are on the way,” Kadam noted.

Adding to the anticipation, stakeholders across the country are now closely watching the Supreme Court's hearing on the ₹2.5 lakh crore GST case. The outcome is expected to have far-reaching implications for the future of India’s online gaming industry.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/tamil-nadus-regulatory-model-not-a-fit-for-karnataka-rmg-stakeholders-tell-govt-61834.htm">Read More: Tamil Nadu’s regulatory model not a fit for Karnataka, RMG stakeholders tell govt</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/karnataka-unveils-indias-first-industry-led-digital-detox-initiative-59413.htm">Read More: Karnataka unveils India’s first industry-led digital detox initiative</a>

Key IPS officer leading Karnataka's online gaming policy transferred

Meta has revised its advertising policy to permit Real Money Gaming (RMG) operators in India to advertise on its platforms, a move that has been widely welcomed by the gaming industry. Experts anticipate the policy change could lead to a 30% surge in ad spending by RMG operators, primarily directed toward Meta’s digital platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.

Storyboard18 was first to report about Meta's change in policy, allowing Real Money Gaming operators to advertise on Meta platforms including Facebook and Instagram. Meta India's ad revenue climbed 24% to Rs 22,730 crore in FY24 while Google India's ad revenue grew by 11% to Rs 31,221 crore in FY24 from Rs 28,040 crore in 2023. 

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/exclusive-meta-allows-rmg-advertising-in-india-with-legal-compliance-certificates-67902.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: Meta allows RMG advertising in India with legal compliance certificates</a>

Under the updated guidelines, Meta classifies online gambling and gaming as any product or service where something of monetary value is involved in either entry or prizes. While advertisements in this category remain restricted, they are now permissible with prior written authorization from Meta, provided all applicable legal and regulatory requirements are met.

Meta's policy outlines a comprehensive list of gaming types that require written approval, including betting, lotteries, raffles, casino games, fantasy sports, bingo, poker, skill-based tournaments, and sweepstakes. Games involving monetary rewards—whether cash or digital currency like Bitcoin—also fall within this purview. Even advertisements directing users to landing pages containing promotional content for such games must obtain approval, irrespective of whether the platform allows direct gameplay.

To secure Meta’s approval, advertisers must formally apply and provide evidence that their gaming operations are legally authorized in the jurisdictions they intend to target. They must also adhere to strict targeting parameters, including age-gating content to prevent access by individuals under 18.

Industry stakeholders have largely hailed the development as a progressive step. “This is indeed a great step from Meta,” said <strong>Govind Mittal, Chief of Staff at Zupee</strong>. “It will help Indian startups and our skill-based games reach wider audiences, creating a level playing field. This change corrects a long-standing market distortion where legitimate, tax-paying Indian companies needed to present court rulings just to advertise."

An RMG operator, speaking on condition of anonymity, added, “This is a major development for the industry. We now hope Google will follow suit. Meta’s policy, especially the requirement to restrict ads to users aged 18 and above, supports the industry’s commitment to safe and responsible gaming.”

<strong>Roland Landers, CEO of the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF)</strong>, also welcomed the policy update. "We welcome Meta’s significant shift in its advertising policy towards greater clarity and compliance for Real Money Gaming (RMG) advertisers. The new framework is a major step forward in aligning global platform policy with India’s regulatory and legal realities. It ensures that only authorized, responsible operators can access Meta’s ad inventory while protecting users especially minors from exposure to unregulated gaming content."

Landers further said, "As the oldest and largest industry body for online skill gaming in India, AIGF has long championed self-regulation and legality in gaming. For nearly a decade, we have run the most exhaustive voluntary skill game certification process in the country, rooted in legal validation and integrity. We are pleased that Meta now recognizes AIGF issued certificates as valid proof for legal and skill-based classification of games."

This milestone reflects the impact of sustained industry platform dialogue and positions India’s legitimate gaming sector for more responsible and structured growth in digital advertising environments. He added. 

AIGF in a memo to all its members stated that going forward, RMG advertisers can submit either a court order confirming the game as one of skill or a certificate from AIGF or other recognized federations to gain advertising approval. “This marks a major step forward in streamlining the ad approval process for RMG operators in India,” the federation added, noting that a more detailed operational process will be released in the coming weeks.

With Meta’s doors now open to RMG advertisements under strict compliance conditions, industry insiders believe this could mark a new era of growth, innovation, and regulation in the Indian gaming landscape.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/meta-plans-physical-retail-expansion-to-push-smart-glasses-and-wearables-67836.htm">Read More: Meta plans physical retail expansion to push smart glasses and wearables</a>

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Meta’s policy shift could spark 30% surge in RMG ad spending in India

The Opinion Trading platforms SportsBaazi and Probo have officially shut operations in the state of Haryana. The move comes in the wake of the Haryana government’s introduction of the Prevention of Public Gambling Act, 2025—an aggressive new law that targets online gambling, sports betting, and match-fixing with stringent penalties.

Haryana isn’t alone in targeting these platforms. Earlier, the Chhattisgarh government invoked its own Gambling Prohibition Act, 2022, to ban opinion trading services.

SportsBaazi, known for offering sports-based prediction markets, quietly updated its website with a disclaimer listing Haryana among the states where services are now unavailable. The message joins a growing list of restricted regions including Assam, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Nagaland. SportsBaazi declined to comment on queries sent by Storyboard18. 

Probo, a prominent player in the opinion trading space, confirmed it had “temporarily suspended” operations in Haryana. "Owing to implementation issues regarding the Act, Probo has taken the decision to temporarily suspend operations in the state of Haryana. We continue to engage with the concerned regulatory authorities and are hopeful to resolve the issue shortly. We remain committed to serving our customers and will resume operations once the situation is clear." a company spokesperson told Storyboard18.

But the company isn't stopping there. Probo Media Technologies Private Limited has filed a writ petition in the Punjab & Haryana High Court challenging the constitutional validity of the new gambling law. It has also approached the Supreme Court, requesting the consolidation of similar Public Interest Litigations (PILs) from Gujarat and Chhattisgarh in the Bombay High Court—a move aimed at avoiding contradictory judicial rulings and saving time.

Platforms like MPL Opinio too have shut down operations in Haryana, while TradeX went a step further, ceasing all Real Money Gaming services nationwide.

The Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Act, 2025—tabled during the recent state budget session by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini—carries serious consequences. The law mandates a minimum three-year prison term and a fine of at least ₹5 lakh for those caught in match-fixing or spot-fixing activities. Repeat offenders could face up to seven years behind bars.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/digital-satta-haryanas-new-gambling-bill-casts-shadow-over-opinion-trading-platforms-63411.htm">Read More: Digital Satta: Haryana govt’s new Gambling Act casts shadow over Opinion Trading platforms</a>

Critically, the law also expands the definition of betting. A “bet” is now legally described as any agreement, oral or written, between two or more parties about an event with an unknown outcome, where the loser must pay or forfeit a predetermined consideration. This definition mirrors the operational model of many opinion trading platforms, which allow users to place stakes on future outcomes ranging from sports to elections.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/mpl-shuts-operations-of-opinio-in-haryana-amid-legal-crackdown-on-opinion-trading-66420.htm">Read More: MPL shuts operations of 'Opinio' in Haryana amid legal crackdown on Opinion Trading</a>

The regulatory noose tightened further when the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a public advisory cautioning investors against these platforms. SEBI warned that while these platforms use familiar trading jargon like “profits” and “stop loss,” they are not registered exchanges nor are they regulated under securities laws. Transactions on such platforms, therefore, offer no investor protection and could invite legal consequences.

As the debate over regulation continues, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has published a whitepaper titled "Examining Opinion Trading in India." The report highlights the sector’s explosive growth—more than 50 million users and ₹50,000 crore in annual transactions—and calls for urgent regulatory clarity to protect consumers and ensure ethical advertising practices.

Globally, in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, opinion trading apps and websites are classified as wagering platforms and are regulated. However, India still lacks specific legislation to govern these activities.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/asci-flags-risks-of-opinion-trading-warns-of-misleading-advertisements-66490.htm">Read More: ASCI flags risks of Opinion Trading, warns of misleading advertisements</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/breaking-sebi-flags-illegal-opinion-trading-platforms-warns-public-to-stay-away-63788.htm">Read More: Breaking: SEBI flags 'illegal' opinion trading platforms, warns public to stay away</a>

Opinion Trading platforms SportsBaazi, Probo shut operations in Haryana amid legal heat

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has informed the Madras High Court that mandatory Aadhaar authentication for Real Money Gaming (RMG) platforms can only be enforced through legislation passed by the Parliament of India.

The statement was made through an affidavit filed by Charu Singh Munda, a scientist at MeitY, in response to a legal challenge against specific provisions of the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority’s (TNOGA) 2025 regulations. The TNOGA had previously mandated Aadhaar-based One Time Password (OTP) authentication for players accessing RMG platforms under its new gaming laws.

The contested provisions — Regulation 4(iii) and 4(viii) of the TNOGA (RMG) Regulations, 2025 — make Aadhaar verification compulsory for initial logins and prohibit gameplay between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m. Several gaming companies have opposed these measures, calling them unconstitutional and illegal.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/exclusive-a-23-games-24x7-junglee-games-take-tamil-nadu-govt-to-court-57569.htm">Read More: A23, Games 24x7, Junglee Games take Tamil Nadu govt to court</a>

MeitY clarified that under the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, Aadhaar-based authentication may only be made mandatory when authorized by a law passed by Parliament. Subsection 7 of Section 4 of the Act explicitly states that such authentication cannot be imposed without legislative backing.

The affidavit added that online gaming companies may seek voluntary Aadhaar authentication under the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance Rules, 2020 (amended in 2025), provided that the use case serves the public interest.

"The authentication of Aadhaar number holder can be made mandatory only under a law made by Parliament as provided under subsection 7 of section 4 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016 which states that – 4(7) Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions, mandatory authentication of an Aadhaar number holder for the provision of any service shall take place of such authentication is required by a law made by Parliament."

"Further, it is submitted that the online Gaming service providers may seek permission for use of Aadhaar authentication, on voluntary basis, under the Aadhaar authentication of Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules 2020 (as amended in 2025) provided their use case is in the interest of the State." 

Meanwhile, the TNOGA continues its crackdown on non-compliant RMG platforms. Several operators have received legal notices for alleged violations of state gaming laws. According to a senior TNOGA official, “Sending notices to RMG companies is an ongoing process. We notice violations of regulations and we act accordingly.” The official added that many platforms are still ignoring Know Your Customer (KYC) norms.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/if-you-play-rummy-ill-become-mummy-tamil-nadus-rmg-case-reaches-final-stage-62755.htm">Read More: 'If you play Rummy, I’ll become Mummy': Tamil Nadu’s RMG case reaches final stage</a>

TNOGA Chairperson M D Nasimuddin confirmed that while some major companies have begun aligning with the new regulatory framework, others remain non-compliant. “A few of the top firms are complying with the rules now. Some are still not,” he stated. Nasimuddin added that the authority will formally request MeitY to block access to platforms operating in defiance of the state’s gaming laws.

The regulatory net appears to be widening, with some free-to-play games also receiving notices. However, legal experts suggest that such games may lie outside the scope of the current rules. Gowree Gokhale, an independent legal counsel, noted, "As per Regulation 2 of TNOGA Regulations, the said Regulations apply to online real money games. The definition of OEMG is provided in the Regulations which clearly indicates that the player needs to make deposit in cash or kind with expectation of earning winnings on the deposit. Thus, free to play games are outside the purview of the said Regulations."

As the tug-of-war between state-level regulation and central legislation unfolds, the online gaming industry in India remains in a state of legal uncertainty — caught between growing compliance demands and the limits of regulatory jurisdiction.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/tamil-nadu-issues-fresh-notices-real-money-gaming-companies-face-meity-blockade-67173.htm">Read More: Tamil Nadu issues fresh notices; Real money gaming companies face MeitY blockade</a>



MeitY to Madras HC: Mandatory Aadhaar authentication for RMG requires Parliamentary legislation

The Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA) has escalated its regulatory efforts against Real Money Gaming (RMG) companies, issuing a fresh round of notices to platforms allegedly operating in violation of state laws. With several firms under scrutiny, TNOGA has approached the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to block non-compliant apps. 

A senior TNOGA official told Storyboard18, “Sending notices to RMG companies is an ongoing process. We notice violations of regulations and we act accordingly.” Pointing out that the companies continue to flout norms including KYC norms.

TNOGA chairperson M D Nasimuddin had confirmed that while some leading platforms have begun aligning with state regulations, others continue to operate in defiance. “A few of the top firms are complying with the rules now. Some are still not,” he said, adding that the authority will formally write to MeitY seeking a digital blockade of the defiant platforms.

The renewed crackdown comes even as the legal fate of Tamil Nadu’s online gaming regulations remains undecided. The Madras High Court is currently deliberating on the constitutional validity of the state's legislation, with a verdict yet to be delivered.

The regulatory framework enforced by TNOGA includes stringent user verification and player protection measures. These mandate Aadhaar-based user authentication, the display of repeated cautionary messages for prolonged gameplay, and the setting of mandatory time and monetary limits for players. One notable clause imposes a curfew, banning online gaming between midnight and 5 AM— a provision that has been challenged in court for being arbitrary and infringing on personal freedoms.

Gaming companies have also raised concerns over the feasibility of Aadhaar-based verification, arguing that the central government currently prohibits its use for private authentication due to privacy restrictions under the Aadhaar Act, 2016.

Petitioners further contend that the Tamil Nadu government lacks jurisdiction over online skill-based games, asserting that such games fall under the purview of the Centre’s Information Technology Rules, 2021.

The ongoing regulatory debate highlights a clash of authority between state and central laws. Dr. Palanivel Thiagarajan, Tamil Nadu’s IT Minister, previously told Storyboard18 that TNOGA reports to the Home Ministry, while the RMG industry falls under the IT sector. He also noted that the state had held discussions and was in the process of forming a formal working group.

"We'll clean up the gazette notifications and interpretations to ensure the focus remains strictly on real-money games and does not impact other areas. These are the growing pains of being a pioneer. When you're the first to pass a law and establish an authority, it sometimes takes a few iterations to get it right," he said.

It’s worth noting that in November 2023, the Madras High Court struck down the law banning online money games such as rummy and poker, declaring the law "unconstitutional." A bench comprising Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice PD Audikesavalu stated that while the state government has the authority to create rules to limit the time spent on online games or to set age restrictions for both games of chance and skill, it can only ban games of chance, not games of skill. The court further clarified that the Act could not be used to ban skill-based games like rummy and poker.



Tamil Nadu issues fresh notices; Real money gaming companies face MeitY blockade

The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday directed the Haryana government to initiate legal action against opinion trading platforms that violate the recently enacted Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Act, 2025. Haryana becomes the second state to prohibit opinion trading platforms after the state of Chhattisgarh. 

The division bench, comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel, issued the directive while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought a ban on opinion trading platforms and a halt to all related advertising across media platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, print, television, radio, and other digital outlets.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/digital-satta-in-disguise-legal-heat-intensifies-for-opinion-trading-apps-sportsbaazi-probo-tradex-65981.htm">Read More: Digital Satta in disguise: Legal heat intensifies for Opinion Trading apps SportsBaazi, Probo & TradeX</a>

During the hearing, the bench questioned the state about the enforcement of the new gambling law. The state government responded that the Act had come into force on April 9, 2025. In light of this, the bench instructed the authorities to take appropriate legal action against platforms engaging in opinion trading for violating the provisions of the Act.

The PIL, filed by Advocate Anuj Malik and a member of the New India Consumer Initiative, contended that opinion trading platforms disguise gambling as market speculation or public opinion analysis, thereby evading regulatory scrutiny.

The Act, introduced during the state’s recent budget session by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who also holds the Home portfolio, targets public gambling activities including sports and election betting and match-fixing. It includes stringent provisions, such as a minimum three-year imprisonment and a fine of at least ₹5 lakh for those involved in match- or spot-fixing, with repeat offenders facing up to seven years in prison.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/mpl-shuts-operations-of-opinio-in-haryana-amid-legal-crackdown-on-opinion-trading-66420.htm">MPL shuts operations of 'Opinio' in Haryana amid legal crackdown on Opinion Trading</a>

According to the provisions of the Act, “whoever indulges in match-fixing or spot-fixing in sports shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not less than three years and up to five years, and shall also be liable to a fine of not less than Rs 5 lakh.” A subsequent offense could result in imprisonment for up to seven years.

The Act defines a "bet" as “any agreement, whether oral, written, or otherwise, between two or more parties regarding the occurrence or non-occurrence of an event—past, present, or future—whose outcome is unknown to any or all of the parties at the time of the agreement, where the party making an incorrect prediction must pay or forfeit a stipulated consideration to the other party or parties involved, either monetary or non-monetary."

Interestingly, this definition of "bet" closely mirrors the format used by many opinion and sports trading platforms operating in India.

The court's directive comes amid growing regulatory scrutiny nationwide. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) recently issued a public advisory warning investors against interacting with such platforms, stating they are unregistered entities operating outside the legal financial ecosystem.

Further raising concerns, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) released a whitepaper highlighting the lack of regulation and advertising ethics in the burgeoning sector. ASCI cautioned that the portrayal of opinion trading as skill-based gaming could mislead consumers, particularly youth and financially vulnerable users.

During routine ad monitoring, ASCI encountered numerous advertisements from platforms like Probo, SportsBaazi, and TradeX that allow users to place bets on outcomes such as cricket match results—activities that appear to be speculative in nature.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/asci-flags-risks-of-opinion-trading-warns-of-misleading-advertisements-66490.htm">Read More: ASCI flags risks of Opinion Trading, warns of misleading advertisements</a>

Some platforms, like Probo, market themselves as skill-based platforms where users make predictions on upcoming events and earn rewards for correct answers. Others, such as SportsBaazi, even allow users to “buy stocks” in players based on performance metrics. Influencers have also been actively promoting such platforms on social media, often claiming they are legal and reliable—despite the absence of clear legal validation.

Experts argue that the lack of defined regulatory frameworks for opinion-based gaming has created a legal gray area. While these games continue to generate significant user engagement and revenue, their resemblance to gambling has raised alarms within the real-money gaming (RMG) industry.

Breaking: Punjab and Haryana HC orders crackdown on Opinion Trading platforms

Mobile Premier League (MPL), a leading online gaming platform, has ceased operations of 'Opinio' in Haryana following rising legal pressures on opinion trading platforms. This move comes in the wake of a growing regulatory crackdown, with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking an immediate ban on such platforms, including restrictions on their advertising and promotional activities. The matter is scheduled for hearing on May 20.

The updated Terms and Conditions on MPL Opinio, explicitly prohibit users in Haryana from participating in "formats that pertain to events whose outcome is unknown," including both MPL Opinio and MPL Fantasy games. The statement reads, "Formats that pertain to events whose outcome is unknown, specifically MPL Opinio and MPL Fantasy, shall not be used by users located in the state of Haryana.

In full the platform's terms and conditions read, "This Platform may not be used by persons located in the states of Assam, Nagaland, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Further, there may be certain games that may be restricted in some additional states. To understand more about who may use this platform please refer to Our Eligibility section. Formats that pertain to events whose outcome is unknown, specifically MPL Opinio and MPL Fantasy, shall not be used by users located in the state of Haryana." 

The development follows the passage of the Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025 during the state’s recent budget session. The legislation, introduced by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini—who also serves as the Home Minister—aims to curb public gambling, including sports and election betting, and match-fixing.

According to the provisions of the Act, “whoever indulges in match-fixing or spot-fixing in sports shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not less than three years and up to five years, and shall also be liable to a fine of not less than Rs 5 lakh.” A subsequent offense could result in imprisonment for up to seven years.

The Act defines a "bet" as “any agreement, whether oral, written, or otherwise, between two or more parties regarding the occurrence or non-occurrence of an event—past, present, or future—whose outcome is unknown to any or all of the parties at the time of the agreement, where the party making an incorrect prediction must pay or forfeit a stipulated consideration to the other party or parties involved, either monetary or non-monetary."

Interestingly, this definition of "bet" closely mirrors the format used by many opinion and sports trading platforms operating in India. However, under Section 1(3) of the Act, “It shall come into force on such date as the State Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette.” It remains unclear when the state government will enforce the Act, which could effectively ban opinion trading platforms in Haryana.

The scrutiny of opinion trading platforms is not limited to Haryana. These platforms were recently banned in Chhattisgarh and are currently under the scanner in several other states. Opinion trading platforms such as SportsBaazi, Probo and TradeX remained banned in the state of Chhattisgarh. 

In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India reinstated a case originally dismissed by the Gujarat High Court. The PIL, filed by petitioner Sumit Kapurbhai Prajapati, challenges the legality of opinion trading apps. The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan, criticized the Gujarat High Court for dismissing the matter due to a similar case being heard in the Bombay High Court and restored the petitioner’s right to be heard.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called for a nationwide ban on opinion trading platforms, describing them as a digital form of gambling or "online satta." In a letter addressed to IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, CAIT highlighted the risks these platforms pose to India's democratic fabric by allowing users to speculate on election outcomes. The organization expressed fears that such platforms could manipulate public sentiment and erode trust in electoral processes.

Experts argue that the lack of defined regulatory frameworks for opinion-based gaming has created a legal gray area. While these games continue to generate significant user engagement and revenue, their resemblance to gambling has raised alarms within the real-money gaming (RMG) industry. Industry observers emphasize the urgent need for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to issue clear guidelines that address the legal, ethical, and financial implications of these platforms.

Storyboard18 has reached out to MPL for an official comment. This story will be updated upon receiving a response.

MPL shuts operations of 'Opinio' in Haryana amid legal crackdown on Opinion Trading

After being banned in Chhattisgarh, opinion trading platforms such as SportsBaazi, Probo and TradeX are now under legal scrutiny in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, with a new Public Interest Litigation (PIL) demanding an immediate halt of their operations alongwith their advertising and promotional activities. The matter will be heard on May 20. 

The PIL (a copy of which is with Storyboard18), filed by Advocate Anuj Malik and a member of the New India Consumer Initiative, has urged the court to restrain all forms of advertisement and marketing related to opinion trading—particularly on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, radio, print, television, and other digital media. The petitioner contends that these platforms operate as disguised betting services under the garb of market speculation and public opinion analysis.

Highlighting the advertising strategies used by these companies, the petition alleges that they actively engage in surrogate marketing, celebrity endorsements, and manipulative digital campaigns aimed at youth. Despite repeated advisories from regulatory bodies such as the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), and the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), these platforms continue to promote betting-like behavior, the PIL claims.

"These advertisements deliberately blur the lines between legal trading and illegal gambling. They use sophisticated terminology like 'profit margins,' 'stop loss,' and 'real-time markets' to present themselves as legitimate investment tools, misleading users—especially young and financially inexperienced individuals."

In a parallel move, the Chhattisgarh government informed its High Court that it has already issued formal directives to block SportsBaazi, Probo and TradeX under the Chhattisgarh Gambling Prohibition Act, 2022, classifying them as online gambling services.

Storyboard18 reached out to SportsBaazi and Probo for their comments. They have declined to respond. 

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/opinion-trading-platforms-sportsbaazi-probo-tradex-banned-in-chhattisgarh-64735.htm">Opinion Trading platforms SportsBaazi, Probo, TradeX banned in Chhattisgarh</a>

The PIL filed by Malik also argues that the state's inaction in curbing such promotional tactics violates constitutional protections, including Article 14 (equality before the law) and Article 21 (right to life and personal liberty), by allowing unlawful trade that leads to financial exploitation and societal harm.

In response to the PIL, a bench comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel has sought the Centre’s position on the matter. The list of respondents spans several key ministries and regulators, including MeitY, MIB, Ministry of Home Affairs, SEBI, RBI, and the Enforcement Directorate.

Recently, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a public advisory cautioning investors against engaging with opinion trading platforms. According to SEBI, these platforms simulate investment environments but fundamentally operate on yes/no betting models—a form of gambling not covered by any existing investor protection mechanisms.

SEBI underscored that such platforms, which are neither recognized stock exchanges nor registered intermediaries, are operating outside the scope of legal financial markets, and any securities-related transactions conducted through them would be deemed illegal.

The PIL filed by Malik has now been tagged with another petition filed in the court seeking action against the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and several high-profile celebrities for allegedly promoting illegal online gambling platforms.

Interestingly, The Haryana government's Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025, passed during the budget session in the state's Vidhan Sabha, also cast doubts on the operations of opinion trading platforms in India. These platforms are also currently under scrutiny in the Gujarat High Court. Earlier, Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) had formally urged the Indian government to ban opinion trading apps and websites referring it as 'Digital Satta'.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who also holds the Home portfolio, introduced the Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025, which aims to prevent and penalize individuals involved in public gambling, operating common gambling houses, betting on sports or elections, and engaging in match-fixing or spot-fixing in sports.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/digital-satta-haryanas-new-gambling-bill-casts-shadow-over-opinion-trading-platforms-63411.htm">Read More: Digital Satta: Haryana govt’s new Gambling Act casts shadow over Opinion Trading platforms</a>

The unchecked rise of such games on real-money gaming platforms has also drawn the attention of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Globally, in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, opinion trading apps and websites are classified as wagering platforms and are regulated. In India, however, there is still a lack of specific legislation to govern these activities.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/cait-demands-ban-on-opinion-trading-apps-says-digital-satta-a-threat-to-democracy-59729.htm">Read More: CAIT demands ban on opinion trading apps, says 'Digital Satta' a threat to democracy</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/opinion-trading-apps-games-now-under-meitys-scanner-54324.htm">Read More: Opinion trading apps, games now under MeitY's scanner</a>

Digital Satta in disguise: Legal heat intensifies for Opinion Trading apps SportsBaazi, Probo & TradeX

In a courtroom charged with anticipation and the weight of ₹2.5 lakh crore hanging in the balance, the Supreme Court of India continued hearing one of the most consequential tax disputes in recent memory. On Wednesday, a division bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan heard the arguments of E-gaming Federation. 

During the hearing, Justice Pardiwala on a lighter note quipped, “The fate of this litigation depends on our skill — we can't take any chance.” The entire matter hinges on the complexities and distinction between game of skill and chance. 

The matter lies a deceptively simple but deeply consequential question: should online games of skill be taxed the same way as gambling and betting under India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime?

Representing the E-Gaming Federation (EGF), former Solicitor General and senior advocate Harish Salve took center stage, laying out a robust case that online gaming is being fundamentally mischaracterized under current GST notifications.

“No one is arguing that games of skill can’t be regulated when there’s money involved,” Salve told the bench. “But that’s a far cry from claiming that games of skill suddenly become games of chance just because stakes are introduced.”

Salve's argument hinges on the definition of "actionable claims"—a term crucial to determining how online games are taxed. He questioned whether the entry fees paid by players to participate in skill-based games like rummy or fantasy sports can be equated with “actionable claims” as defined under GST law. Citing the Supreme Court's 2006 ruling in Sunrise Associates, Salve emphasized that actionable claims typically involve a transferable right to a future benefit—like a lottery win—which doesn’t exist in skill-based gaming platforms.

“Online platforms are facilitators,” Salve asserted. “They don't offer any actionable claim. There is no guaranteed win, no transfer of rights—just competition among players.”

Yet under Rule 31A of the CGST Rules, tax authorities have classified participation in these games as equivalent to betting and gambling. This rule mandates that the entire face value of a bet be considered taxable at 28%, not just the operator’s earnings. Salve pointed out the significant flaw in this approach: gaming platforms typically retain only around 10% of the total entry fee as their platform fee, and even this already includes an 18% GST. The department's interpretation, however, seeks to levy 28% GST on the full entry fee amount—more than doubling the platform’s actual revenue in tax obligations.

“The operators are being taxed on money that never enters their accounts,” Salve said. “Players compete against each other. The platform simply hosts the game. How can that be equated with gambling?”

The implications of this case stretch far beyond courtroom semantics. With a staggering ₹2.5 lakh crore at stake, the outcome could reshape India’s digital gaming industry and establish a precedent for how skill-based digital services are taxed.

Gaming companies argue that Rule 31A was crafted for classic gambling scenarios—like horse racing and lotteries—where the outcome relies purely on chance. Applying it to games that require strategy, knowledge, and skill, they contend, not only misinterprets the law but risks stifling one of India’s most promising tech sectors.

As arguments will continue on May 15, what’s at stake is not merely a tax classification, but the very future of online gaming in India.

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