An online gaming app in Bareilly refused to pay my winnings; is there a legal remedy?
ME Asked by Meera Krishnan from India
Quick Answer
Online gaming disputes are governed by the IT Act, the Public Gambling Act and the state-specific gaming statute where you played.
Detailed Legal Analysis
Online gaming disputes are governed by the IT Act, the Public Gambling Act and the state-specific gaming statute where you played. File a consumer and cyber complaint in Bareilly alleging deficiency of service and cheating under Section 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
If the game is one of skill, the refusal to pay is enforceable as a contractual breach; if it is a game of chance, both you and the operator may face exposure. The Allahabad High Court has held that skill-based gaming is protected but money-laundering or betting is not.
Uttar Pradesh Rent Control Act 1972 on gambling must be checked, because several states ban online games for stakes entirely. Preserve the game logs, KYC records and withdrawal refusal messages as evidence.
Where the operator is unregistered, the complaint should also be routed to the ED for possible PMLA action.
Legal Provisions Referenced
Verify the current statutory text at India Code (the official repository of Indian legislation) or the Legislative Department. This answer is general legal information, not advice on your specific matter.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.