A public interest litigation filed by Dr. KA Paul urges the Supreme Court of India to ban gambling and betting apps, highlighting the role of celebrity endorsements—including those by Sachin Tendulkar—in promoting these harmful platforms, which allegedly lead to youth addiction and rising suicides.

Supreme Court Moved to Ban Gambling Apps and Celebrity Endorsements

In a bold legal move, the Supreme Court of India has asked the Union government to respond to a public interest litigation seeking a nationwide ban on both online and offline gambling apps. The petition, filed by evangelist Dr. KA Paul, raises serious concerns about the growing menace of online betting and its promotion through celebrity endorsements.

Petitioner Alleges Suicides Linked to Online Gambling

Dr. KA Paul argued before a bench led by Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh that gambling platforms have caused a disturbing rise in suicide cases, particularly among the youth. Citing data from Telangana, he claimed over 1,000 suicides occurred recently due to gambling-related stress.

He also noted that 25 celebrities and influencers from Bollywood and Tollywood have had FIRs filed against them for promoting betting apps, contributing to a dangerous trend among India’s youth—60% of whom are under the age of 25.

Violation of Article 21 and Call for Stronger Regulation

Dr. Paul emphasized that more than 300 million Indians are being “trapped illegally” through these platforms, which he argues is a clear violation of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution—the right to life and personal liberty. Initially hesitant about legislating such matters, Justice Kant compared the issue to criminal law, questioning whether legislation alone can stop such societal issues. However, the court ultimately agreed to seek the Union government’s position.

Controversy Over Sachin Tendulkar’s Alleged Endorsement

Adding to the controversy, Dr. Paul claimed that cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, often revered as the “God of Cricket,” has allegedly endorsed betting apps. He warned that such endorsements create a perception of legitimacy among the masses, particularly when linked to events like the IPL, which are already heavily commercialized.

Key Reliefs Sought in the Petition

Dr. Paul’s PIL requests comprehensive measures to curb gambling-related harm in India. These include:

Declaration that all betting apps, whether online or offline, constitute gambling.

Immediate regulation or ban of such apps under strict federal and state laws.

Removal of non-compliant apps by digital platforms like Apple and Google.

Restrictions by agencies like TRAI and MeitY on foreign betting site access.

Criminal prosecution against gambling app owners and promoters.

Ban on endorsements by celebrities, influencers, and cricketers.

Formation of a High-Level Committee/SIT to review gambling laws and their societal impact.

Creation of a national helpline for victims of gambling addiction, and implementation of safety measures like age restrictions and self-exclusion policies.

Final Remarks and Next Steps

The court issued notice to the Union government and hinted that notices to individual states may follow. As the country grapples with the growing influence of gambling platforms and their promotion through trusted public figures, this case could set a major precedent in India’s fight against digital addiction and exploitation.