@Precisely_, u r right actually. If the clubs are legal and allowed to take bets and their own online sites are an extension of the same,they should be allowed to operate! The dividends are the same as advertised by the clubs. Other sites which r not linked to the clubs can be banned.

I did not understand the logic of banning official club sites under this law. The betting on tote and fixed odds at clubs is allowed. The online portal is linked to same totes and fixed odds betting. So what's the point is banning official club sites. 

The so called manipulation in online betting is also not applicable in case of clubs. 

It would make sense if entire betting system was banned on and off course. But you can bet by visiting the club and not on the site of same club. How does this make any sense?

WHEN OWNERS STOP PURCHASING OR STOP INVESTING ON HORSES, IS THE DAY..END OF RACING IN INDIA.

FROM" 60 "RACE DAYS THE RACING IN MAJOR CENTERS COME DOWN TO" 20" RACE DAYS ONLY. AND THIS MAY FURTHER DETORIATE TO 10 TO 12 DAYS RACING.

DOES HORSE RACING MAKE ANY IMPACT ON INDIAN ECONOMY? ANSWER IS BIG"  NO". BEFORE 2014 RACING INDUSTRY WAS IGNORED FROM YEARLY BUDGET. AND THIS CALLED THE COMMON SENSE.

40% GST GOING TO BE HAPPEN . BECAUSE COMMON SENSE IS NOT SO COMMON.

Article by RWITC
Notice - Re: Suspension of Betting Operations on www.play.rwitc.com
Posted on - 23 Aug 2025

Dear Patron,

As you may be aware, The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 has recently been passed by both Houses of Parliament. In compliance with the provisions of this Bill, the RWITC has decided to suspend online betting operations on our website www.play.rwitc.com.

Please note that the Live Streaming of races on the website will continue as usual.

We thank you for your patronage and understanding.

Warm regards,
RWITC

Hi

Can no one explain to the powers that be that tax is to be deducted on income. Not on every transaction. tax the income of club bookies and individual winnings at 40 per cent it's ok. If they don't understand then just look around the world and you will find no one taxeing transactions.

I quite agree with what N M Selvan stated, in fact I had posted something on similar lines, that it's just a ruse to garner funds, and didn't ever think that this law would be passed, but it has happened, and in a world breaking record time, wherein it took our government just 3 days to implement something as foolish as this. This dictatorship act takes us back at least about 10 years, and our economy, back by about 20 years.

Quite funny how they acted considering the fact that the gaming industry, as per my rough estimate gives the government about 40-50% of revenue as taxes, and now that they've blocked this source of revenue, how would they make up for that? They didn't have funds for schemes promoted to win elections, so they thought they'll get those funds from one's consuming alcohol, they're sort of acting as intermediaries, taking from one spouse and giving to the other, in the form of Ladki Bahin scheme.

If the argument is that people have lost lives due to online gaming, have'nt ives been lost due to liquor, tobacco, etc , so do we brace ourselves for a ban on liquor, cigarettes, etc., because our moralistic government has suddenly woken up, and have started showing concern for citizen's lives.

Most important point, all forms of gaming/speculation are off as of now, where online payments are made, so one needs to ask our dear government as to how stocks speculators deposit funds when dealing on stock exchanges. Isn't that too considered as speculation, and do we not hear suicide news when the markets crash, so how come that falls in a different bucket?

To summarise, this draconian law won't really stand in the court of law once the aggrieved parties decide to take this matter to court. All they have to do is ask the government a few questions, firstly, how would the government make up for the tremendous loss of revenue, because if that is not taken care of we can rest assured that all the other industries would have to make up for that in terms of higher taxes, and in the bargain, we the citizens, that our dear government thinks so much about all of a sudden, will have to bear the brunt, and the next thing that demands an answer is, why does the rule not apply to trading on stock exchanges. Truly, achche din aate hi jaate hain, and we are so privileged to enjoy those achche days, in this so called democratic country. Truly, achche dictatorship din aa gaye hain.

@Raj-original,

While you have a valid point that real money gaming could lead to desperate conditions, I would like to point out that smoking and alcohol are bigger vices and causes far more damage not only to finances and family, but even health.

Will the govt have the same "social" responsibility and stop cigarette and alcohol? Doesn't it seem that it is selective in its "social responsibility" decision?

Govt looks away and thinks smoking and drinking vices are ok, as they give huge taxes, but gaming is being targetted.... 

Instead of blanket ban, they could have introduced tight regulations, such as link betting losses to a person's income tax filed. Say, 10% of monthly income is a cap for betting losses in a month, then do not take bets and so on. There are many ways to have a controlled environment and a blanket ban is not the only way

It may be possible that like how Trump threatens with tariffs, our govt is using blanket ban on gaming, so that gaming companies agree to 40% GST (almost like a threat - pay 40% or close shop !!)

As all the club sites are not working past 2 days will they stream live as before. Since Pune races used to stream live on rwitc site will they stream for Pune races to be held today 

Back to Basics
Imagine the pre-Corona period, when no official betting app was provided by any race club in India. We used to rush in an auto to the racecourse, struggling through terrible traffic. Now, the government wants us to go back and do the same thing—wasting fuel, money, and precious time just to buy tickets from the tote or to bet with racecourse bookies. Does that make any sense?

If I ask this question, people react angrily—“Who asked you to go to the races?” But then, who asked you to go to the cinema, to the park, to the stadium to watch cricket, or even to a pub? Yes, who asked you?

It’s a matter of entertainment. The entertainment industry is massive, and racing is one part of it. If a person spends money on cinema or on racing, it is nobody’s business but his own. After all, he is spending his own hard-earned money. The government’s duty is to tax him and collect revenue, not to dictate how he should spend his leisure in a democratic country in the 21st century. Honestly, it is a shame.on Government

First, the government started closing public sector industries with the excuse that manufacturing and services are not its responsibility. It privatized them and washed its hands off providing employment—except for white-collar jobs like tax officials. Also washed its hands off in laying road and entrusted to private sector and loot lakhs of crore in the form of  toll possibliy with a strong kick back from the contractors.It always wanted easy money like in all form under the mask of GST, income tax, Toll .Now, it is not even allowing the public to create jobs through racing and related industries.Here also they may looking for a huge deal

Once technology has developed and advanced, trying to reverse it makes no sense. It is like saying, “Go to the railway station and book your ticket” instead of booking online. The government has not banned horse racing, but only online betting. But what happens if some youngsters go to the racecourse, lose big money, and commit suicide? Will the government stop horse racing altogether? Or will it stop people from carrying cash?

We all know what the Supreme Court said about stray dogs. Old data showed one dog per 50 humans in India. With a human population of 140 crore, approximately  5 crore stray dogs today ready to bite the unsuspecting children men and wemen. The government spends approximately ?6,000 per dog on sterlising, rabby injections and other indirect involvement—that comes to nearly whopping ?30,000 crore being spent on stray dogs.

Hardly ?1,000 crores would be needed to regulate any industry and ensure compliance with laws. But instead, the government takes shortcuts, allowing bootleggers and underground mafias to channel money from horse racing and pocket kickbacks for elections.

If that is not the case, then let employment flourish and regulate the industry properly—enforce existing laws with authority to tell what it should do and what it should not do.

Instead of fair regulation, the government is bulldozing the industry with threats like 40% GST, bans on online activity and other measures—all seemingly to secure possible kickbacks. This is my personal opinion, but the government is answerable.

From tomorrow onwards good odds dividends should come into the picture as I see almost 80% of apps not working since morning, completely non-operational. Only horse racing is left now which is purely skill-based, 99%. Even my money is stuck in one gaming app which they said will be settled in one week, but I think it’s gone. Even the Bet India website, which is purely based on horse racing, is non-operational. Nevertheless, good dividends and odds will be in the picture from now on.

Hi folks 

The current govt has no idea about GSt. On one count they speak about 10000 PPL dying of suicide but do they know how many tote workers, daily wage earners, syces, riding boys might commit suicide if the race stops. Not counting the stud farm, the groomers n others. 

This isjust like Donnie Trump. Let's make India great again but where are the alternative jobs, 

TK

Whether it's a game of skill  or sport but if the  sport or game is related to gambling then the present order by the government should be implemented even to all race clubs and that's the facts irrespective of the previous Suprene court order that racing is aa game of skill , no partially shoud be entertained to any sport that encourages gambling when it concerns money even one rupee , and what's the difference on online betting and course betting,  one is you play from home,  office or workplace and the other is  you visit the racecourse and play your bets,   all said and done and logically its gambling,  even if you wage a bet of 10 rupees for gain or profit .

This government order won't linger too  long,  the case would be defeated or dropped  as money factor is too powerful , rember even some  big players are involved in all forms of sports regqrds gambling, and when money betting plays an important part , this government rule won't last long I can assure you 1 million percent and if so ? It lasts, then the globe would revolve upside down , the government should legalise all forms of gambling or betting with taxes and run by them ,  The many racing sites that accepted online betting are suspended however they have given the liberty to withdraw your balance money .

No need to panic it will take a few days or weeks when online betting will resume again just have patience and go to the racing course and bet .

Another factor it may be a blessing in disguise for most families that are praying fir this Nonsense to end and in many ways a saving , who knows the government wants all families to celebrate this coming Deewali and the coming festivals with lots of happiness and prosperity. 

This govt.is a real shit.....they don't have jobs for the youth nothing but to give trouble to the poor.

All the apps/website associated with various club's stand Non operational. The reason being provided is the passing of this bill!!

What's the current status on Gaming app ?

The bill is in the right direction. Over a period of trial it can be modified. It should not be allowed in gaming involving money. Several world renowned chess champions have failed to best the computers. What can an ordinary person do in the gaming app and try to beat it. Taxi and food delivery apps exploit the users. 

Recently I saw a FB post wherein they had video recorded and posted about booking a taxi using Android/Iphone seperately at the same time from the same location to the same destination. iPhone showed some 30% extra. 

I have spoken to several taxi personal and also food app delivery persons. Very few can check their payout every month. Every app requests for additional tips to be added. Do the beneficiaries know who has added and date to check the same. I don't add and if I feel like giving ,I give it to them directly. These companies can mask anything since it is controlled by them. They try to make profit as much as possible to the company.

Coming to the racing part. Each turf clubs have their own online betting portal and also take bets in the race course which are not integrated. The dividends are poorer due to the betting getting divided to several portals. 

I donot know whether Bangalore is still following the procedure of putting on the notices in several places after completion of each race the total number of tickets sold, less commission and taxes , number of successful tickets and dividend for each ticket. It should be easier now to take computer print out and display it.

In online racing apps we do know these details and it can be easily manipulated. If racing needs boost all clubs should go for one Tote concept which will definitely attract better crowd and collections since the tote payment will be attractive.

For example, in Bangalore before GST the top collections were on the Invitation day. When Temerity won the Invitation, the exacta collection for that race was Rs.3.5 lacs which was carried over to the next race since there were no winners. There were no online betting sites. During Juliette's Invitation win at Bangalore the exacta collection was Rs.1.5 lacs with GST and several online betting sites. Imagine with online gaming banned and a single all India tote will be a game changer to all punters since the collections will be huge. If the supreme court's verdict in GST case turns favourable to the clubs you can have a Bonanza in tote collection especially in Jackpot and multileg tote tickets.

Turf clubs should join together with their heads open and go for ONE TOTE formula to survive. 

@Sheharhyd

1000 people dead don't matter to you? What about at least 5 people associated with him?

1000 people is an highly underestimate. It's around  100,000 people who are ruined and another 5 lakh associated with him.

It's a pity people like u still encourage online games.

Horse Racing in India: Law, Legacy, and the Case for Fair Taxation.

Horse racing in India has always been more than a sport. It is a blend of heritage, culture, history, and passion — an institution where equestrian excellence meets social and artistic life. From the grandstand at Kolkata’s Royal Turf Club to the iconic Mahalaxmi in Mumbai, racing has attracted not only sporting enthusiasts but also artists, writers, and cultural figures who saw in it a spectacle of grace, courage, and tradition. To reduce such a legacy to a “game of chance” for taxation purposes is both a legal and cultural misreading.

A Sport of Skill: Legal Recognition by the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of India, in K.R. Lakshmanan v. State of Tamil Nadu (1996), removed all ambiguity about the nature of horse racing. The Court categorically held that racing is a game of skill, not of luck, pointing to the intricate knowledge of breeding, training, jockeyship, track conditions, and handicapping required to succeed. This legal foundation has safeguarded the sport’s legitimacy for decades, distinguishing it from gambling. Any attempt to now re-club racing under the broad umbrella of “gambling” disregards the highest court’s judgment and undermines the principles of fair classification in law.

Cultural and Social Dimension

The racecourse has long been a stage where sport mingles with culture. Events like the Art Day at RCTC, covered by The Telegraph, Times of India, and The Pioneer in 2014, are a testament to this unique blend. On that day, eight races unfolded alongside art workshops and exhibitions by some of India’s finest contemporary artists, from P.R. Narvekar and Ganesh Haloi to Jogen Chowdhury and Pyne. Trophies sculpted by artists were presented to race winners, while auctions raised funds for welfare causes. Such initiatives show that racing clubs are not mere betting arenas; they are cultural hubs that host art, music, charity, and community life.

At RCTC in Kolkata, for instance, art lovers, diplomats, and film personalities have gathered alongside horse lovers, bridging the worlds of equestrian sport and fine arts. The club itself, founded in 1847, is one of Asia’s oldest and has hosted monarchs, viceroys, and now modern-day enthusiasts. The Queen’s Cup continues to be a symbol of continuity between India’s colonial heritage and its contemporary sporting spirit.

Historical Significance

Horse racing came to India with the British but soon took on a life of its own, becoming a sport of prestige and tradition. Race clubs in Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai became centres of both sporting and social life, where generations grew up with the thrill of the Derby or the Kingfisher Calendar Race Days. These clubs also fostered equine breeding industries in Mysore, Pune, and beyond, creating rural employment and advancing veterinary sciences in the country.

Over the decades, racing has supported thousands — from trainers, jockeys, syces, and farriers to artists and performers who found a platform at the racecourse. Even today, a single race day sustains entire ecosystems of workers, vendors, and service providers, making it a micro-economy of its own.

Why Taxation Must Reflect Reality

Despite this layered identity — legal, cultural, and historical — horse racing today finds itself under siege. The 28% GST levied on the full face value of bets has devastated official turnover, with Hyderabad’s revenues falling from ?1,271 crore in 2016–17 to just ?141 crore in 2024–25, and Mumbai’s tote collapsing to a fraction of its pre-GST levels. Meanwhile, illegal betting has flourished. The proposal to impose a 40% “sin tax” slab risks extinguishing a sport that the Supreme Court has already recognised as a legitimate game of skill.

Treating horse racing like gambling ignores judicial precedent, erases its cultural role, and jeopardises livelihoods.

Above is a article written by Mr Vikram Bachchawat which I am reposting.

The Parliament has passed the Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 in both the Houses. I would like to share some of my personal thoughts on this bill.

The government is planning to regulate online gaming, which often traps innocent people and affects their lives.

A useful way to understand the distinction is this: All sports are games, but not all games are sports. Sports are almost always competitive, governed by formal and standardized rules, and are highly organized with governing bodies, leagues, professional athletes, and a clear separation between participants and spectators. The goal is to achieve a measurable result such as a score, time, or championship. Sports also support an ecosystem that includes players, coaches, sponsors, and fans.

Online Games, on the other hand, are often designed by developers or teams of developers. While they can be competitive, they do not necessarily involve physical activity, and the outcomes can sometimes be manipulated within the system.

In this context, we can see two categories clearly. For example, cricket can survive without betting, as it is a global entertainment sport with huge advertising revenues. But horse racing cannot survive without betting in most parts of the world. The racing industry supports a wide ecosystem that includes trained professionals, stud farms, equipment makers, feed suppliers, and a large number of  direct and indirect employees.

Therefore, the government should focus on regulating online gaming, not sports that are already well regulated. Our government should also have the wisdom to distinguish between pretenders and contenders—unlike, for example, former U.S. President Trump, who imposed a blanket 50% tariff on India’s legitimate fuel purchases without valid reasoning.

All the racing apps are shut down. The central Govt may impose heavy taxes such as 50% or above to kill the sport further for the offline betting. In this scenario I believe the clubs can not afford to run the show. Eventually & gradually by December I feel this sport will die. Sorry to say this but infact it looks like it.  

@Ravi Gowande, 

I beg to differ. 

The Online Gaming Bill 2025 specifically targets digital platforms offering games of chance or mixed skills for monetary stakes. Horse racing bets fall outside it's ambit. 

Horse racing is governed by separate State Level Race course regulation acts and dedicated racing authorities. 

The Bill's definition of " Online Money Games " excludes regulated sports such as betting in Horse Racing, which are permissible under existing State Laws. 

I reiterate online betting racing portals are under no risk. It is the GST rate that may make or mar the game. (28 per cent slab being abolished-- now will it be 18 per cent or 40 per cent?) 

The passage of the Online Gaming Bill 2025, discussed in this detailed piece, marks a major turning point for India’s gaming sector. With Dream11 and MPL halting real-money contests, the industry now faces uncertainty over how regulation will shape its future. The big question is whether this move safeguards players or creates new challenges for the ecosystem.

Blanket ban on online gaming apps

The recent bill introduced by the central government to ban online gaming apps is not a good move. While it is contended that around 1,000 people have died by suicide due to online betting, this number should be seen in the context of a population of 150 crore. Many people also affected by cancer and die due to alcohol consumption and smoking — in fact, the numbers run into  lakhs every year. Yet liquor and cigarettes are not banned. If those are permitted despite their harm, why should online betting and skill-based games be banned? The government should reconsider its decision and adopt a balanced approach rather than imposing a blanket ban.

 A Chandra Sekhar 

Hyderabad

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025: 

The Indian Government has recently introduced a landmark legislation — the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 — that changes the landscape for online gaming, including betting on horse racing. For millions of race enthusiasts and bettors, both online and offline, understanding how this law affects their favourite pastime is crucial.

The Bill divides the whole online gaming sector into several categories — e-sports, online social games, educational games, and “online money games.” It specifically targets games that involve monetary stakes, skill or chance, and prizes — and outright prohibits such online money games regardless of whether they are based primarily on skill or luck. This is a big shift from past regulations and court decisions.

The law makes it illegal for anyone to offer, facilitate, or promote online money games. This includes platforms that allow for betting on horse races. It doesn’t matter if you use a computer, smartphone, or any other online device; if money or equivalent stakes are involved, the activity is banned. The Bill also includes strict measures against advertising or promoting such services. Even aiding or abetting these activities — for example, helping someone bet online, managing a betting group, or promoting betting websites — is now a punishable offense.

The Bill focuses primarily on online money games. Traditional, offline racecourse betting — the kind that happens face-to-face at horse racing events — is not directly banned by this law. However, many race clubs now use electronic payment platforms and app-based betting for convenience. If any part of a betting service is carried out electronically, it may fall under the definition of an online money game and be banned. Clubs and racecourses need to be careful about integrating digital payments, online platforms, or apps in betting operations.

Horse racing has long been recognized by the Indian Supreme Court as a "game of skill," distinguishing it from games of pure chance. Traditionally, the court allowed betting on horse racing, especially at licensed racecourses. However, this new Bill does not make an exception for “games of skill”: if money, deposits, or stakes are placed with the expectation of a monetary reward in return, it is considered an online money game and thus illegal under the new legislation.

This puts Indian law directly at odds with certain previous court judgments that permitted horse racing betting as a legal activity. It also creates friction with India’s commitments as a signatory to relevant international horse racing conventions, such as participation in the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA). Many international conventions support regulated horse race betting, viewing it as an essential and legitimate part of the sport. The Bill, however, makes no exemption for horse racing within the category of online money games.

Offline Betting May Survive: Traditional, manual betting at racecourses could still be allowed, provided it does not use digital technologies for accepting bets. However, vigilance and caution are advised, 

It may promote illegal betting in big way for sure unless turf clubs as well Racing Industry collectively approach government for relaxation of rules for Horse Racing. However, considering reluctance of Owners, Breeders, Trainers to Pay GST on Buying and Selling of Race horses. Lack of Public auction of Race Horses in most of states where thoroughbreds are produced support from Government may not be received.

It can be used as an Opportunity by Racing Industry. Racing can be a big revenue earner for Governments. 100% GST Compliance on buying, selling of race horses, Public Auctions where anyone with money can participate for ownership. Promotion of syndicate racing by turf clubs. Export of Indian Thoroughbreds to Middle East as well other countries. Export of Services Indian Jockeys, Trainers, Vet Doctors, Stable Hands etc in a systematic manner  by Racing Industry in collaboration with Governments. Unfortunately all these things looks only a Dream.     

Its practically closure of Indian Racing Industry.

Ravi Gowande 

Pedigreestar

Clarity from Govt and gaming sites will come shortly.

This will affect brand value of IPL as many online gameplay sites sponsor IPL dream11 mpl etc so removal of these companies will have an impact on value of franchises and IPL 

Atlast someone had guts to ban online gaming betting. It will save millions including families from disaster.

Celebrities who were promoting these games are the one who will get affected. It's for GOOD .

These greedy and reck less  made millions without any kind of shame or remorse. All that mattered them was few crores for themself where as millions were getting affected.A cricketer stands tall in this group. No more.

Racing is not online gaming.

Hi

As far as my understanding goes this Act wont effect online bets on various Race club apps in India . The government has targeted online gambling apps operating in India without proper licences and permissions and many apps indulging in money laundering . 

Firstly, Horse Racing is not online gaming. It is a sport which also allows online betting. 

Surely, the GST has to undergo change. There will be no 28? category. Either there has to be 18? category or 40? ( sin goods) category. Needless to say, in the later event Horse Racing will be staring at its closure. 

It is time for the Turf Authorities to act now, and request the government to tax only the Club Commission. It is now or never situation. 

It's just a way to fetch a few thousand crores from the gaming industry, that's it. Do you'll think that the government can implement this against a billion dollar industry, and can they afford the loss in revenue, in terms of taxes? Along with the liquor industry this happens to be the highest revenue generator for the government, they've already played around with liquor prices to take care of schemes promoted before elections, which they can't fulfil due to lack of funds, this is just another weapon up their arsenal to garner another thousands of crores to keep the machinery running.

Betting on horse racing is officially allowed and from time to time even supreme court has given a ruling racing is a game of skill. World over betting is part and parcel of horse racing. Being signatory to International convention Betting on Racing is offically allowed infact it is only sport where Gambling is allowed legally. Hence probablilty of Betting on racing stopping is very less. How ever illegal betting is real issue and problem for most of turf clubs.. 

Ravi Gowande

Pedigreestar

Can we play horse race betting in apps like line bet, melbet, 1x bet, 22bet, parimatch etc., even after the ban? Please clarify.

It is the responsibility of the government to clarify about horse race betting. So many punters like me are very much confused and getting scared. Instructions also to be issued to banks for easy transactions in horse race betting. 

No bill   & No one can stop horse racing it's online betting

Govt come and goes 

Good news for all race clubs , lf there is no online betting the attendance of punters to clubs obviously increases, automatically the revenue of clubs increases,we can expect good dividend from all pools

One thing I want to clear for all members due to this bill Horse racing doesn't effect , only those who do bets on different sites through online those are going to effect. Betting on horse racing is legal as per Supreme court,so don't confuse on this bill, it is purely to restrict online gaming like Ipl, lottery, rummy, poker, number game including horse & grey hound racing 

I think everyone clear