The government initiated a sweeping crackdown on gambling advertisements, with the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) rolling out tough new guidelines aimed at curbing the industry's influence, particularly on youth and vulnerable groups.
The move came after a 30-day suspension of all gambling ads across media platforms, initiated on April 29, 2025.
The new guidelines introduce specific restrictions on where gambling advertisements can be placed.
"There shall be no form of advertisement placed near schools, religious institutions, or places frequently visited by children, such as playgrounds and shopping malls."
This measure underscores the commitment to protecting minors from exposure.
Crucially, the guidelines explicitly prohibit the glamorization of betting.
"Gambling adverts SHALL NOT glamorise betting or use celebrities, influencers, and content creators to endorse or promote gambling."
This is a significant shift, as it also states that gambling advertisements "Not associate gambling with celebrities or social success" and "Not depict gambling as a source of income."
Additionally, the use of testimonials as a means of advertising is forbidden. This directly addresses concerns about creating misleading impressions of easy winnings by prohibiting the featuring of "former winners... in advertisements to encourage gambling participation."
