Puducherry Gambling Laws
Do you want to play in a casino in Pondicherry? Explore the legal framework governing gambling activities in Puducherry, including the types of gambling permitted and restrictions imposed by the state government.
Gain insights into licensing requirements for operating casinos and the measures in place to ensure responsible gambling practices.
Discover popular casino destinations in Pondicherry and learn about the vibrant gaming culture in this picturesque coastal city.
In this short guide, we tell all about Pondicherry casino laws and regulations.
How to Gamble from Puducherry
Fortunately for everyone living in Puducherry, gambling is easily accessible via many online gambling sites. This is how to start playing in a couple of easy steps:
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Read online casino reviews to find a brand that speaks to you;
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Visit the casino site;
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Click the signup button to start the registration process;
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Fill out the form in front of you;
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Submit the only form and that`s it!
Now you have a gambling account and can access thousands of fun games. However, like all others, players from Puducherry must make a deposit to place real money bets and win real money prizes.
Most casinos will offer you a plethora of payment methods to use. The most popular ones are PayTM, UPI and PhonePe.
Is Gambling Legal in Puducherry?
Long story short, land-based gambling is not legal in Puducherry. Yet, there is no ban on online gambling activities. We have to say that arrests for land-based gambling don’t happen often.
The arrests of people who play online never happen. Like in many other states and union territories, in Puducherry, online gaming remains in the grey zone. This makes it even more difficult for players to find trustworthy brands.
It is necessary to mention efforts to ban all gambling activities within Puducherry. In 2023, a bill was drafted, hoping to pass a law that would completely ban gaming. Until 2024, the bill hasn`t passed the vote.
Gambling Laws in Puducherry
All gambling in this union territory is regulated by the Puducherry Gambling Act of 1965. Although a whole century younger than the Indian Public Gambling Act of 1867, it still fails to recognize modern gaming concepts.
The law bans:
- Running a casino or a gambling house;
- Being in the gambling house;
- Games of skill;
- Games of chance;
- Public cock fights and wagering on them.
Casino In the Capital City of Puducherry
The capital of this state is also called Puducherry, often dubbed “The French Riviera of the East”. Naturally, it offers all sorts of entertainment options, even gambling.
Online gambling in the city of Puducherry is very simple, as the place has a magnificent internet infrastructure. Most bars, hotels and residencies, offer complimentary free Wi-Fi for their guests.
Unlike the real French Riviera, Puducherry doesn`t have big gambling houses with luxurious interiors where you can play land-based games. Ritzy online gaming sites compensate for it, especially with a rich selection of teen patti and andar bahar titles.
Lottery in Puducherry
The lottery is excluded from the 1965 law, as it is regulated by the Puducherry Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998. The Law leaves a window open for the state authorities to organize lottery draws.
Even so, the authorities never do so. The current situation is as if the lottery is virtually banned, as law forces often prosecute those who resell tickets from other states. A safe and solid alternative is the online lottery. Online lottery sites are booming, offering tickets for draws from across the globe.
Again, the State keeps the authority over organizing online lottery, but never does so. Frustrated players choose international draws instead.
Sports Betting in Puducherry
The Gambling Law of 1965 doesn’t cover all aspects of sports betting. Instead, it focuses primarily on horse racing and cock fighting.
That being said, online sportsbooks remain the best option for players from Puducherry. On such websites, it is possible to find all popular sports, even cricket.
Let`s compare licensed online bookmakers with illegal street bookies operating in Puducherry:
- Online sportsbooks always have fair odds;
- They operate in line with the license they have;
- Street bookies are often nothing but scams;
- Illegal street bookmakers may cause you nothing but trouble;
- Good online sports betting platforms will offer a variety of bonuses to boost your potential;
- Stake limits are much higher with street bookies;
- Online bookmakers don’t charge the wig (fee for service);
- Online, you can even bet on horse racing;
- Online platforms support both live and pre-match betting.
Horse Racing in Puducherry
Article 3 of the Puducherry Gambling Law clearly states there will be a penalty for any individual, group, or company that organizes horse betting. The only option that is left is online betting on horse races.
There are a couple of advantages of online horse betting:
- Live streams of exciting races in real-time;
- Dozens of markets on every race;
- A wide selection of jockeys and horses;
- Online bookmakers cover horse racing events from across the globe;
- Fun bonuses and extra perks for new and loyal customers;
- Easy betting and cashing out.
Status on Rummy, Poker, Flush, and other card games
According to many, there is a clear difference between games of skill and games of chance. Considering the fact rummy, poker and flash rely solemnly on skill, Puducherry doesn`t prohibit such games for money.
Playing them face to face is fun, but what is even better is playing online. Here`s why:
- You get a massive variety of variants of games of skill;
- You get to play against people from across the globe;
- It is possible to choose between live casino games and video formats;
- You can join different races and competitions to win prizes from lucrative prize pools;
- A constant stream of bonuses and promotions.
Conclusion About Gambling in Puducherry
Puducherry offers limited gambling options, at least for those who prefer to do it in the old-fashioned way. For those ready to accept the thrills of online gambling, it is a treasure trove of opportunities.
Players who live in this union territory can get access to thousands of sports betting, casino and horse racing options if they sign up with online operators. Additionally, by choosing online lotteries, they get access to big international jackpot prizes.
Are you ready for it? Find a safe gambling site to place bets and play great casino games!
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