DGGI monitors over 700 offshore betting platforms ahead of IPL 2025

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The Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has intensified its scrutiny of offshore online gaming entities as the Indian Premier League (IPL) begins. These platforms, which offer betting services, are under investigation for potential tax evasion and violations of Indian laws.

As reported by Inc42, the DGGI is closely monitoring approximately 700 offshore entities engaged in online money gaming, betting, or gambling. A senior government official stated, “Given the IPL is going to kickoff, a lot of offshore applications offering illegal betting are active. Since they are registered abroad, they defy Indian laws and operate without paying GST.”

The agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has already blocked 357 websites of offshore online gaming platforms under Section 69 of the IT Act, 2000. These platforms reportedly evade taxes and operate without regulatory oversight, prompting the government to take stringent measures against them.

Over the past few years, the Indian government has ramped up its efforts to regulate online gaming and betting. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been investigating multiple gambling platforms involved in fund remittance and round-tripping. In December 2023, authorities confirmed that 642 offshore gaming and betting platforms were under investigation for tax evasion.

Additionally, the Centre informed Parliament that it had directed digital intermediaries to block 1,298 online gambling websites and apps between 2022 and 2024. These actions are part of the government’s broader strategy to curb illegal online gambling and protect Indian users from financial risks.

The crackdown has also extended to individuals promoting these platforms. Recently, Cyberabad police in Telangana filed an FIR against 25 people, including Tollywood actors and social media influencers, for allegedly endorsing illegal betting, gambling, and casino applications.

Despite strict regulations, offshore gaming platforms continue to attract Indian users, particularly during major sports events like the IPL and ICC tournaments. While most states prohibit betting and gambling, online money gaming remains legal in several regions. However, in 2023, the GST Council imposed a 28% tax on entry-level deposits for online gaming. This tax led to a surge in offshore platforms that evade taxation and regulatory scrutiny.

Last year, All India Gaming Federation CEO Roland Landers revealed that illegal offshore betting platforms were costing India’s exchequer approximately $2.5 billion in GST revenue annually. The government’s current crackdown aims to address these financial losses while ensuring stricter compliance with Indian gaming laws.

With the IPL attracting millions of viewers and bettors, authorities remain vigilant in curbing unauthorized gaming activities. The government’s proactive measures signal a strong stance against tax evasion and illegal betting, reinforcing India’s commitment to regulating the online gaming sector.

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