Patna: The Bihar Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed the Bihar Gambling Prohibition Bill, 2026, introducing a new legal framework to regulate gambling in the digital era. The legislation replaces provisions of the Bengal Gambling Act, 1867, which the state government said was no longer adequate to address online and technology-driven gambling.
The Bill was passed by a voice vote after a discussion in the House. Introducing the legislation, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary said the new law was needed to keep pace with changing technology and the rapid growth of online gambling platforms.
Why Bihar Is Replacing a 159-Year-Old Law
According to Chaudhary, Bihar has so far relied on the Bengal Gambling Act of 1867, enacted during the colonial period when gambling largely involved card games, dice and other traditional forms.
He told the Assembly that the emergence of mobile applications, websites and digital payment systems has transformed gambling, making it difficult to regulate such activities under the existing law.
The government said the new legislation has been drafted to address these technological changes and provide legal provisions for dealing with digital gambling.
Online Operators and Financiers Also Covered
Unlike the earlier law, the Bihar Gambling Prohibition Bill extends beyond individuals participating in gambling.
According to the government, the legislation also covers those who organise or operate gambling activities, provide financial support to gambling networks or earn commissions from such operations.
Officials said the expanded scope is intended to enable action against the wider ecosystem supporting illegal gambling rather than focusing only on participants.
Different Penalties for Repeat Offenders
During the debate, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Bill introduces separate punishment provisions depending on the nature and frequency of the offence.
According to him, first-time offenders and repeat offenders will face different penalties, with stricter punishments proposed for those repeatedly involved in gambling-related activities.
The government said the graded penalty system is intended to deter habitual offenders.
Opposition Raises Concerns
During the Assembly debate, RJD MLA Rahul Sharma questioned certain provisions of the Bill and suggested that the government undertake a more detailed examination before proceeding.
Responding to the criticism, Chaudhary said the Supreme Court has clarified that legislation relating to gambling falls within the jurisdiction of state governments. He said Bihar had framed the new law after considering present-day circumstances and developments in technology.
The Deputy Chief Minister also rejected allegations that the Bill had been introduced in haste, arguing that replacing a law that had remained in force for nearly 159 years was a long-overdue step.
Government Cites Financial Crime Concerns
According to Chaudhary, online gambling platforms facilitate high-value financial transactions that can contribute to financial crimes and other social concerns.
He told the House that the government’s objective is to strengthen regulation of gambling activities rather than harass individuals, and urged members across party lines to support the legislation.
What’s Next?
The Bihar Gambling Prohibition Bill, 2026, will now proceed through the remaining legislative process before becoming law. Once it comes into force, authorities will be able to initiate legal action against online gambling platforms, digital betting operations, financiers, intermediaries and traditional gambling activities under the new framework.
