Petitioner Demands Action Against 1,100 Celebrities for Promoting Illegal Betting Platforms
New Delhi: Expressing strong disapproval of repeated postponements, Dr. K.A. Paul has appealed to the Supreme Court to resume hearings urgently in the case seeking a total ban on illegal betting apps.
Dr. Paul recalled that on August 1, 2025, the Bench had reserved orders after issuing notices to the Centre and all States, acknowledging the severe impact of betting apps that have caused widespread financial losses and suicides among India’s youth. However, he noted that the matter has been “shockingly delisted twice since then without explanation.
“Is there any matter more important than justice for millions of Indian families who lost their breadwinners to these illegal betting platforms?” Dr. Paul asked, urging the judiciary to ensure accountability and swift action.
The petition filed by Dr. Paul seeks strict measures not only against betting app operators but also against over 1,100 celebrities who allegedly promoted such platforms for financial gain. He mentioned names including Vijay Deverakonda, Manju Lakshmi, Rana Daggubati, and Sachin Tendulkar, questioning how prominent public figures could endorse platforms that have destroyed countless lives.
Dr. Paul further demanded that endorsement earnings from these celebrities be redirected to compensate victims’ families. He also criticized Google and Apple for enabling illegal betting applications on their platforms. “If global companies want to operate in India, they must abide by Indian law,” he asserted.
While thanking the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Home Minister for taking my petition seriously and introducing a bill to curb online betting, Dr. Paul emphasized that justice for victims remains pending. “Parliament acted, but the victims still await relief. My 18 prayers before the Supreme Court are yet to be addressed,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to continue the legal and moral fight until justice is served.
