Uttarakhand Approves Public Gambling Prevention Bill 2026

The Uttarakhand state cabinet has approved the Public Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026, a new proposal aimed at tackling illegal betting activities by introducing significantly tougher penalties. The decision was taken on Friday, with authorities stating that stronger measures are needed to address the growing gambling problem.

State officials believe the existing Public Gambling Act of 1867 is outdated and ineffective in controlling betting operations. Once the bill is presented and approved by the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly in its upcoming session, law enforcement agencies will gain greater authority to act against individuals and groups involved in gambling activities.

Stricter Penalties Proposed

The proposed legislation introduces a range of penalties depending on the nature and severity of the offence. Individuals caught gambling in public places or on the streets could face up to three months in jail, a fine of Rs 5,000, or both.

Those found operating a betting shop from their residence may receive a prison sentence of up to two years or a fine of Rs 10,000. Meanwhile, individuals running a dedicated betting shop could face a jail term of up to five years, a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh, or both.

For organised betting operations run as commercial businesses, the penalties become significantly harsher. Such offenders may face imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines reaching up to Rs 10 lakh. Authorities say these measures are intended to dismantle organised betting networks and make such activities financially unviable.

Replacing the Outdated 1867 Law

Uttarakhand currently relies on the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which imposes relatively minor fines or short prison terms. Officials say these penalties have not been sufficient to discourage gambling activities.

The new bill represents a major shift by introducing a structured penalty system, with punishments increasing based on the seriousness of the offence. After receiving cabinet approval, the proposal will now be submitted to the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly for debate and voting.

Expected Impact on Enforcement

Supporters of the bill argue that stronger penalties will act as a deterrent against illegal gambling. Higher fines and longer prison terms are expected to discourage individuals and organised groups from running betting operations.

If the legislation is approved, police departments across the state including those in Dehradun will have stronger legal tools to pursue cases against betting operators, particularly repeat offenders and organised syndicates.

Next Steps

With cabinet approval secured, the bill will now move to the legislative assembly for consideration. If enacted into law, it will allow authorities to take stricter action against gambling activities that have continued under weaker regulations.

The proposed system introduces graduated penalties, ranging from minor punishments for street gambling to severe sanctions for organised betting operations. Officials believe the new framework could help reduce illegal gambling activities and strengthen enforcement across the state.