1xBet is a well-known global betting platform that has long attracted Indian users with its cricket betting options, INR support, and Hindi interface.
However, after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, the legal status of offshore betting sites like 1xBet has changed. The new law places a complete ban on online money games, including foreign-operated betting and gambling platforms.
While 1xBet remains accessible to some users, it is no longer considered legal for real-money play in India. This article explains what the new law means for users, the risks involved, and safer legal alternatives within India.
Short Overview of 1xBet Legality In India
1xBet is not licensed or regulated in India, and after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, it now falls under the category of banned online money games.
The new law prohibits foreign-operated betting platforms from offering or promoting real-money games in India.
Several Indian states, including Tamil Nadu and Telangana, already have their own bans in place, and now the national law reinforces this restriction. Users should avoid real-money betting and instead explore legal Indian platforms like Dream11, MPL, or A23 that follow local laws.
What Is 1xBet and How Does It Work in India?
1xBet is a global online betting company that began in Europe and operates from Cyprus under a Curaçao license. This license allows it to function in countries without strict betting regulations.
In India, 1xBet became popular among cricket and sports fans because it supported Indian Rupees, had a Hindi interface, and covered major tournaments like the IPL and World Cup. However, following the 2025 Online Gaming Bill, such offshore betting platforms are now prohibited from offering money-based gaming services in India.
While some users may still access 1xBet online, doing so is not legal and carries risks such as loss of funds or lack of dispute resolution. Indian authorities can block payments and websites linked to offshore betting.
If you enjoy cricket-based gaming, legal options like fantasy sports (Dream11, MPL, My11Circle) remain available — these are skill-based games, permitted under Indian regulations, unlike betting or gambling platforms.
Is 1xBet Legal in India?
India’s main gambling law, the Public Gambling Act of 1867, was written long before online betting existed. This old law focused only on physical gambling houses and said nothing about internet-based platforms. That is why websites like 1xBet operated in a grey area for many years.
The situation changed after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. This new law clearly bans all online money games, including foreign-operated betting platforms. It applies across the entire country and makes it illegal to promote or participate in any real-money betting activity.
1xBet does not hold any licence from the Indian government. It operates under a foreign licence from Curaçao, which has no legal standing in India. Users can still access the website, but doing so now falls outside the law and may lead to blocked payments or other penalties.
As of 2025, 1xBet is officially illegal in India. It no longer falls into a legal grey zone and cannot be used for real-money betting under the current regulations.
What About Different States?
Before 2025, some states such as Telangana and Tamil Nadu had their own restrictions on online betting, while others had no specific laws. The new Online Gaming Bill now makes this uniform across the country.
Real-money betting is banned nationwide, including through offshore platforms like 1xBet. Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai, the same rule applies. 1xBet is not legal to use for betting anywhere in India.
Can You Use 1xBet in India Safely?
With the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, online money games like 1xBet are now banned across India. This means users are not legally allowed to place real-money bets on such platforms, even if they can still access the website or app.
Since 1xBet operates from outside India and does not hold a local licence, users have no legal protection if they face problems such as delayed payments, blocked withdrawals, or account suspension. The new law also allows authorities to block financial transactions linked to offshore betting sites.
If you still choose to access 1xBet despite the risks, it’s important to understand that this goes against Indian law. The safest option is to avoid using such platforms and instead explore legal gaming alternatives like e-sports or fantasy sports platforms that comply with government regulations.
Can You Trust 1xBet for Betting in India?
1xBet continues to be popular among users worldwide and is known for its variety of sports betting options, especially cricket. However, in India, it is no longer recognized as a legal platform for betting after the 2025 regulation came into effect.
Because it operates under a foreign licence from Curaçao and has no registration with Indian authorities, users have no legal recourse in case of disputes. Several users have reported issues like delayed withdrawals or lack of proper support. This makes trust a personal decision, but it comes with a clear legal risk.
If you want a safer experience, it is better to use regulated Indian gaming apps such as Dream11, MPL, or A23, which are compliant with Indian laws and provide verified user support.
Are 1xBet Winnings Taxable in India?
Yes, all gambling and betting winnings are taxable in India at a flat rate of 30% under Section 115BB of the Income Tax Act. This includes winnings from platforms like 1xBet, even if they are based overseas.
However, because 1xBet is now considered an illegal betting platform, declaring such income could raise compliance issues. Players should avoid using banned sites and instead participate in legal and skill-based gaming activities to stay within tax and legal boundaries.
There are no exemptions or minimum limits. Any winnings from gambling or betting, whether online or offline, are fully taxable and must be disclosed in your income tax return.
Top 3 Alternatives to 1xBet in India
If you are looking for safe and legal gaming platforms after the 2025 Online Gaming Bill, there are several options available in India. These platforms focus on skill-based games, are regulated under Indian law, and follow responsible gaming standards.
Below are three trusted alternatives that offer entertainment and rewards without violating the new rules.
1. Dream11
Dream11 is India’s leading fantasy sports platform and is fully legal under Indian gaming laws. It operates as a game of skill, not chance, and has been recognised by multiple Indian courts for its compliance with local regulations.
Dream11 allows users to create fantasy teams based on real cricket, football, and kabaddi matches. The platform follows responsible gaming practices and uses verified KYC for safe transactions.
If you enjoy making sports predictions, Dream11 is the most reliable legal choice for Indian users.
2. MPL (Mobile Premier League)
MPL is another popular Indian gaming app offering fantasy sports, rummy, e-sports, and quiz games, all of which fall under the skill-based gaming category. It is registered and operated within India, ensuring compliance with the country’s gaming laws.
The platform supports UPI, Paytm, and net banking for smooth and secure payments. MPL also includes time limits and self-control features to promote safe play.
If you’re looking for a free-entry fantasy app with real-money rewards, MPL is one of the most active and trusted platforms.
3. A23 (Ace2Three)
A23 is a trusted Indian gaming platform known for online rummy and other skill-based games. It holds a valid licence under Indian law and maintains strict KYC and age verification systems.
The app is focused on promoting responsible gaming and helps users set spending and time limits. A23’s secure payment system and transparency make it a safe alternative to offshore betting sites like 1xBet.
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Conclusion: 1xBet Is No Longer Legal Under India’s 2025 Gaming Law!
1xBet now falls under the prohibited category of online money games after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 came into effect. While some users may still access it online, doing so involves legal and financial risks, including potential penalties and loss of consumer protection.
The Indian government has clarified that only registered e-sports and social gaming platforms without monetary stakes are permitted. This means offshore betting sites like 1xBet, Stake, or Parimatch are not legal to use in India.
For safer and lawful gaming, users should stick to certified Indian platforms such as Dream11, MPL, or A23, which follow government guidelines, operate under Indian jurisdiction, and ensure responsible play.
