Uttarakhand Cracks Down on Gambling with New Stringent Bill

In a decisive step to rein in gambling activities, the Uttarakhand Government has unveiled a stringent legislative proposal, the Uttarakhand Public Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026. Endorsed by the state cabinet, the bill threatens harsh consequences for individuals engaged in gambling at public spots or running gambling operations.

As it stands, Uttarakhand adheres to the antiquated Public Gambling Act of 1867, which imposes only minor penalties for violations. The new law, poised for consideration by the state's Legislative Assembly, seeks to implement rigorous measures against both public and organized gambling to replace the century-old act.

Key provisions of the proposed law include penalties for gambling in public areas, with potential jail terms of up to three months and fines of Rs 5,000. Organizing or operating gambling inside private properties could lead to two years in prison or a fine of Rs 10,000. Serious infractions, such as running a gambling den, could attract up to five years in jail or a fine of Rs 1 lakh. Organized gambling activities may incur three to five-year sentences and fines up to Rs 10 lakh.