📜 Historical Context: The Public Gambling Act of 1867
The foundation of gambling laws in Bangladesh is the Public Gambling Act of 1867, a colonial-era legislation inherited from British India. This act prohibits most forms of gambling, including the operation of common gaming houses and public gambling activities. However, the act does not address online gambling, as it predates the digital age. linkedin.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1
🛡️ Constitutional Directive
Article 18(2) of the Constitution of Bangladesh mandates the state to adopt effective measures to prevent gambling. While this article sets a directive principle, it is not directly enforceable by courts but guides legislative and executive actions. academia.edu+2thedailystar.net+2researchgate.net+2
🖥️ Emergence of Online Gambling and Legal Ambiguity
With the advent of the internet, online gambling has proliferated in Bangladesh, leading to a legal gray area. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 does not explicitly cover online gambling, resulting in ambiguity regarding its legality. This lack of clarity has allowed online gambling activities to flourish, often facilitated through mobile financial services and social media platforms. en.wikipedia.orgthedailystar.net
🆕 Introduction of the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025
To address the challenges posed by online gambling, the Bangladeshi government enacted the Cyber Security Ordinance in 2025. This ordinance explicitly criminalizes the creation, operation, or promotion of online gambling platforms. Key provisions include:pechanga.net+3thedailystar.net+3en.bd-pratidin.com+3
- Section 20: Criminalizes the creation, operation, or promotion of online gambling platforms, punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to BDT 1 crore, or both.thedailystar.net
- Sections 21 and 22: Prohibit financial transactions related to online gambling, including fraud and manipulation.en.bd-pratidin.com
These provisions aim to curb the spread of online gambling and protect citizens from its associated risks. en.bd-pratidin.com
🚔 Enforcement Actions and Crackdowns
Following the enactment of the Cyber Security Ordinance, law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to combat online gambling. Notable actions include:sbceurasia.com+2en.bd-pratidin.com+2thedailystar.net+2
- The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) launched a nationwide campaign targeting online gambling and betting platforms.thedailystar.net
- Over 1,000 mobile financial service agents have been identified for facilitating transactions related to illegal gambling, with recommendations for license cancellations and financial penalties.thedailystar.net+1sbceurasia.com+1
- The Bangladesh Bank has directed financial institutions to monitor and report suspicious transactions linked to online gambling. sbceurasia.com
📢 Judicial Oversight and Public Awareness
The judiciary has also taken steps to address the proliferation of online gambling:
- In May 2025, the High Court Division ordered the government to investigate online gambling promotions and advertisements, seeking a progress report within 30 days.sigma.world+1yogonet.com+1
- The court questioned why access to gambling-related platforms through internet gateways, such as social media and mobile apps, should not be revoked. sigma.world
These actions reflect a growing concern over the social and financial consequences of online gambling, particularly among youth.thedailystar.net
🧭 Safe Practices for Bangladeshi Bettors
Given the current legal landscape, individuals in Bangladesh should exercise caution regarding online gambling activities:
- Avoid Participation: Engaging in online gambling is illegal under the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025.sbceurasia.com+2thedailystar.net+2en.bd-pratidin.com+2
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of legal developments and enforcement actions related to online gambling.
- Report Suspicious Activities: Citizens are encouraged to report any information regarding online gambling to the National Cyber Security Agency at [email protected].en.bd-pratidin.com
📌 Conclusion
The legal framework in Bangladesh unequivocally prohibits online gambling. The enactment of the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025, has strengthened the government’s ability to combat online gambling activities. Citizens are advised to refrain from participating in online gambling and to report any related activities to the appropriate authorities.linkedin.com
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal concerns, please consult a qualified legal professional.