Complaints: Realistic Options for Readers in India

In a regulated market, a player with a dispute can escalate to a regulator. In India there is no licence or regulator for real-money online gaming, and since 1 May 2026 such games have been prohibited. That changes what a complaint can achieve. This page sets out the realistic options and the evidence that makes them work.

Why there is no Indian regulator to complain to

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025 prohibits online money games rather than licensing them. The Online Gaming Authority of India, set up under the Act within MeitY, oversees e-sports and social or educational games, not real-money casinos. An offshore casino serving users in India is outside any Indian licensing scheme, so there is no domestic body that can order it to pay.

Complaining to the operator

Start with the operator's support, then send a formal written complaint. State what happened, what you want and the evidence. Ask for a reference number and a timeline. The operator's terms may name an outside authority in the country where it is based; if they do, follow that route in order. Expect slow responses and be prepared for none.

Fraud is a different matter

If you were deceived by a fake site, an app that took money or an agent who collected payments, treat it as fraud. Contact your bank or payment provider immediately and report it to your state's cyber cell, which under section 15 of the Act also investigates offences under it. Speed matters: the sooner a bank is told, the better the chance of stopping a transfer.

Evidence to keep

• Dates and times in IST, and amounts in rupees.
• Transaction references from your bank or payment app.
• Screenshots of the account, balances, messages and errors.
• Names, numbers and handles of anyone who contacted you.
• The exact web address or app name used.

What this site cannot do

We cannot contact operators on your behalf, recover money or give legal advice. If a large amount is involved, speak to a lawyer, who can advise on your position under the Act and any state law.

Looking after yourself

Losing money and then fighting to recover it is stressful, and it is often the point at which people realise gambling has become a problem. Tele MANAS is free and available 24/7 on 14416 or 1800-891-4416. Our help page lists more support, and the support page explains who to contact for what.

Frequently asked questions