RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh govt in view of the rising incidents of Gambling passed the Chhattisgarh Gambling (Prohibition) Bill, 2022. The bill aims to prohibit gambling, including betting or wagering in person or on online platforms for financial gains.
Underscoring that it is the duty of the state government to ensure socio-economic security for each and every citizen, Home minister Tamradhwaj Sahu tabled the Bill in the house. The bill as per reports will come into effect from the date of the gazette notification.
As per the bill, anyone found playing or aiding or abetting gambling in public places shall be liable to imprisonment for any term up to six months, or fine of not less than ₹3,000 but not exceeding ₹10,000, or both. In terms of online gambling, an imprisonment not less than one year but not exceeding three years and fine not less than ₹50,000, not exceeding ₹5 lakh, for first-time offence have been mentioned.
“Whoever, being the owner or occupier, or having the use, of any house, room, tent or place or online platform within the limits to which this Act applies, opens, keeps or uses the same as a gambling-house shall be liable to imprisonment not less than six months but not exceeding three years and fine up to ₹50,000 for first-time offence. For subsequent offences, such offender will face imprisonment not less than two years, but not exceeding five years, and penalty of up to ₹100,000,”– the bill read.
Those found providing his/her bank account, mobile app wallet or any other account willfully for gambling in person or online and gains profit from it shall be liable to imprisonment up to six months, or a fine up to ₹10,000, or both. Advertisers promoting betting will attract an imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to ₹50,000.