Is Stake Legal in India?

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Verified and updated: 13 February, 2025

Stake has become a popular platform for online casino gaming and sports betting globally, including in India. However, the legality of such platforms in India is a complex topic influenced by local gambling laws. This article explores whether Stake is legal, the kinds of bets allowed, and how the platform ensures safety and credibility for its users.

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Types of bets available on the online platform Stake
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India’s gambling landscape is a patchwork of regulations, with laws differing significantly from state to state. While gambling is prohibited in most forms under central law, certain types of betting and games are legally allowed due to their classification, cultural significance, or absence of specific regulatory oversight. Here’s a detailed look:

Games of Skill

Some states in India permit betting on games considered skill-based rather than purely luck-driven. These include:

  • Poker and Rummy: Courts in several states have ruled that these card games require significant skill and strategic thinking, thus exempting them from gambling bans.
  • Chess Tournaments: Prize-based competitions involving chess, considered a purely skill-based activity, are legal in many regions.

The distinction between skill and chance is crucial, as it determines legality under existing gambling laws.

Horse Racing and Lotteries

These are two of the most widely recognized legal forms of betting in India:

  • Horse Racing: Legal under Indian law, betting on horse races is considered skill-based due to the need to analyze horse performance, jockey skill, and track conditions. Wagering takes place both at racecourses and through online platforms.
  • Lotteries: State-sponsored lotteries are allowed in states like Kerala, Sikkim, and Maharashtra, among others. Each state determines its own rules, and revenue from lotteries often funds public welfare projects.

Online Betting

Online gambling operates in a legal grey area in India, primarily because the laws were written long before the internet era:

  • International Platforms: Websites like Stake.com capitalize on this regulatory void, offering a wide range of casino games and sports betting options to Indian players.
  • Cryptocurrency Use: Payments through cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum further blur regulatory oversight, making platforms like Stake attractive to users seeking privacy and ease of transactions.

Fantasy Sports

Fantasy sports platforms have grown exponentially in popularity and are widely considered legal under Indian law:

  • Dream11 and MPL: Platforms allow users to create virtual teams and win real money based on player performances in actual games, qualifying as a skill-based activity.
  • Legal Backing: The courts have upheld fantasy sports as games of skill, exempting them from gambling restrictions in states like Maharashtra and Haryana.

Indian Gambling Laws

Gambling Laws in India 2025
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Indian gambling laws are a mix of central and state regulations. Understanding these laws is key to knowing Stake’s legal status:

  • Public Gambling Act of 1867

The Public Gambling Act of 1867 is the central piece of legislation that prohibits the operation of physical gambling houses across India. However, it does not specifically address online gambling, which leaves room for ambiguity in terms of regulation. This outdated law primarily targets land-based casinos and betting establishments and does not extend to the online realm. As a result, online gambling platforms such as Stake operate in a grey area where they are not explicitly covered by this law, making it possible for Indian players to access such platforms without facing legal repercussions.

  • State Laws

While the central law governs gambling on a national level, India’s states have their own set of rules regarding gambling activities. States like Goa and Sikkim have legalized regulated gambling, including physical casinos and online betting platforms, under specific licensing frameworks. Goa, in particular, is known for its vibrant casino culture, with both land-based and offshore casinos operating under state authorization. Sikkim is one of the few states that have a legal framework in place for online gambling, allowing licensed online platforms to operate within the state.

However, not all states are as lenient. States like Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh have enacted stringent laws to prohibit gambling entirely, including online betting. These laws aim to safeguard citizens from what they perceive as harmful gambling practices. Despite these regional restrictions, the lack of national regulations on online gambling means that players from these states can still access international platforms like Stake, where local laws do not directly apply.

  • Online Gambling

The absence of clear and specific laws regulating online gambling in India is a significant factor in platforms like Stake’s continued operations in the country. While the central government has yet to introduce comprehensive laws for online gambling, international gambling sites have exploited this grey area to offer their services to Indian players. Stake, like other international platforms, operates without directly breaking any national laws, as long as it complies with the local regulations of the states it serves.

  • Payment Methods

In line with global trends, Stake offers various payment methods, including cryptocurrencies and e-wallets, which are popular among Indian players. The use of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin for deposits and withdrawals has become increasingly common due to their decentralized nature and ability to circumvent traditional banking systems. As of now, there are no Indian laws prohibiting the use of cryptocurrencies or e-wallets for online transactions, which further enables Indian players to freely participate in platforms like Stake without fear of legal issues.

Legality & Credibility

Legality of online casino and bookmaker Stake in India
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Stake.com operates under licenses from reputable gambling authorities, ensuring transparency and fair play. Here’s why it’s considered a credible platform:

  • Licensed and Regulated
    Stake holds a license from the Curacao eGaming Authority (8048/JAZ,), ensuring compliance with global gambling standards.
  • Secure Transactions
    Stake offers cryptocurrency-based payments, which are encrypted and secure.
  • Transparent Operations
    With clear terms and conditions, users are informed about betting rules, bonus policies, and withdrawal processes.

Is Stake Scam or Not?

Security of Stake online casino for Indian users
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Stake.com is widely recognized as a legitimate platform. Here’s what supports its credibility:

  • Real Player Testimonials

Stake.com has earned widespread recognition as a legitimate platform, largely due to positive player testimonials. Many users highlight the platform’s ease of use, fast withdrawals, and diverse game selection. Reviews consistently mention the responsive customer support, which ensures a smooth gaming experience. Players appreciate Stake’s transparency, with no hidden fees or delays, making it a trusted choice for both beginners and experienced gamblers.

  • No Hidden Charges

Stake.com is known for its transparency when it comes to financial transactions. The platform does not impose hidden charges, and players are always aware of the costs involved before they make any deposits or withdrawals. Stake ensures that transaction details are clearly presented, allowing users to make informed decisions. This commitment to honesty sets the platform apart from others in the industry, as players feel confident that there are no surprises when it comes to financial dealings.

  • Proactive Support Team

Stake.com boasts a dedicated and proactive support team, available 24/7 to assist players with any issues that may arise. Whether it’s an account-related question, payment issue, or gameplay concern, the support staff responds quickly and efficiently. The team not only addresses problems but also anticipates potential concerns, reaching out to users with helpful tips and solutions. Their professionalism and responsiveness contribute greatly to the platform’s credibility and player satisfaction.

Common ConcernsHow Stake Addresses Them
Delayed WithdrawalsProcesses most withdrawals within minutes using cryptocurrencies.
Fraudulent ActivitiesOffers two-factor authentication for enhanced account security.
Unclear Bonus TermsProvides detailed explanations in its “Promotions” section.

FAQ

Is Stake legal in India?

Stake operates in a grey area of Indian law. While not explicitly legal, it is not prohibited due to the lack of clear online gambling regulations.

Can I withdraw winnings to an Indian bank account?

Yes, you can withdraw winnings by converting cryptocurrency to INR and transferring it to your bank account through supported e-wallets or exchanges after sign up.

Does Stake accept Indian players?

Yes, Stake accepts Indian players who verify themselves, and allows transactions in popular cryptocurrencies.

Are games on Stake fair?

All games on Stake use provably fair technology, ensuring transparency and fairness.

Is customer support reliable?

Stake provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and email, with quick resolutions to user queries from users who have a new account.