How Online Betting is Thriving in Sports Despite Being Illegal in India

Online betting companies are becoming more visible in sports, using digital ads, sponsorships, and celebrity endorsements, even though betting is mostly illegal in India.

Key Points:

1. Celebrity Endorsements: Cricketer Dinesh Karthik, actor Sonu Sood, and other well-known figures have partnered with betting platforms like Parimatch and FairPlay. These platforms often present themselves as sports apparel brands to dodge the law.
   
2. Betting in Sports: Despite restrictions, these companies sponsor jerseys and other sports-related items. For instance, Parimatch has raised funds for sports academies in India.
   
3. Social Media Influence: Celebrities promote these brands to their large social media followings, making the platforms more popular. This has attracted government attention, especially during cricket seasons and elections.
   
4. Regulatory Loopholes: Authorities have tried to crack down on these ads, but the platforms keep finding ways to stay visible. Advertising bodies like ASCI and regulatory agencies often act only when complaints are filed.
   
5. Massive Market: Betting remains a huge underground market in India, with an estimated size of $50-100 billion. The government loses significant tax revenue due to this illegal activity.
   
6. Brand Extensions: Betting companies sometimes label themselves as clothing brands to skirt regulations. However, this tactic is questionable under advertising guidelines.
   
7. Legal Concerns: Experts argue that these companies exploit regulatory gaps to operate. While some ministries have issued warnings, the lack of clear rules allows these businesses to thrive.
   
8. Celebrity Responsibility: There’s concern that celebrities endorsing these brands lend legitimacy to illegal activities and mislead their fans.

In conclusion, despite being illegal, online betting companies are growing in influence in the sports world by using clever branding and celebrity power.