PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
The Special Task Force (STF) under Uttarakhand police have blocked 86 illegal betting and gambling websites as part of its crackdown on online gambling, said the STF senior superintendent of police, Ajai Singh on Wednesday and added that the action has been taken under the new Uttarakhand Gambling Law 2026. “Anyone running an online betting syndicate can face three to five years in jail and a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh. People operating illegal gambling in their houses can also face imprisonment and heavy penalties. The law also allows police officers to arrest gamblers without a warrant in certain cases,” he warned.
The STF has appealed to the people to stay away from online betting and illegal gaming applications. “Gambling may become a dangerous addiction, leading to financial ruin for individuals and families. Besides, the people should report any suspicious betting websites or mobile applications to the police once they find them operating,” he said.
Singh further said that they would carry on with its crackdown on illegal gambling platforms to make Uttarakhand safe from cyber-related crimes and financial fraud. “We are determined, but we need people’s cooperation,” he added.
