What changed in Indian law
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 20–21 August 2025 | Parliament passes the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 |
| 22 August 2025 | The Act receives Presidential assent |
| April 2026 | The Ministry of Electronics and IT notifies the Online Gaming Rules, 2026 |
| 1 May 2026 | The rules come into force and the ban on online money games is enforced |
Before 2026, the rules depended on the state: some states banned online money games, others did not, and offshore sites worked in a grey zone. The new Act replaced this patchwork with a single national approach.
What the Act prohibits
The Act distinguishes three categories of online games:
| Category | Status |
|---|---|
| Online money games (stakes for monetary winnings) — casino, betting, poker, rummy, fantasy for money | Prohibited |
| E-sports without betting | Permitted and promoted |
| Online social and casual games without stakes | Permitted |
The prohibition covers offering, advertising and promoting online money games, as well as facilitating payments for them. It applies to services offered in India and to services operated from outside India that are accessible there.
What it means for 1win users in India
- No legal way to play. 1win offers casino games and sports betting for money, which are online money games under the Act.
- Payments can be blocked. Banks, card networks and payment apps are not allowed to process transactions for online money games.
- Websites and apps can be blocked. Authorities can order internet providers and app platforms to block access.
- Advertising is prohibited. That is why this guide does not link to 1win from this page and does not show bonus offers for India.
Searches like "1win login India" and "1win app India"
Many people still look for a way to log in, download the APK or find a working address. Be aware of the risks:
- Mirror sites and APK files offered for Indian users are often fake copies made to collect passwords and deposits.
- "Agents" who accept deposits via personal UPI IDs or wallets are not connected to any licensed operator.
- Money sent through unofficial channels is practically impossible to recover.
If you have an old account with a balance, use only the official cashier to withdraw and keep records of all transactions.
Legal alternatives
The Act permits e-sports and social games without stakes. If you enjoy cricket, you can follow matches and play free prediction or fantasy formats that do not involve money. For casino-style games, use free demo versions that do not require deposits.
Where to get help
If gambling has become a problem, contact a counsellor or a gambling-support helpline in your state, and use bank tools to block gambling-related payments on your cards. Talking to family or a doctor is a good first step.
Other countries
The legal status of 1win differs by country. Our honest 1win review explains how the Curaçao licence relates to local law, and the payments guide covers general rules for deposits and withdrawals where online gambling is allowed.
FAQ
Is 1win banned in India?
Yes. Since 1 May 2026 online money games are prohibited in India, including services operated from outside the country but accessible in India. 1win offers real-money games, so it falls under the ban.
Is 1win legal in India because it has a Curaçao licence?
No. A Curaçao licence does not override Indian law. The Act applies to services offered in India regardless of where the operator is licensed.
Can banks and UPI process payments to 1win in India?
Banks and payment intermediaries are barred from processing transactions for online money games. Payments can be blocked and funds can be frozen.
What should I do if I already have a 1win account in India?
Stop depositing, withdraw any remaining balance through the official cashier if possible, and do not use agents or third-party wallets that offer to move money for you.