DGGI Takes Action! 357 Illegal Gaming Websites Blocked Ahead of IPL 2025

In a major crackdown on tax evasion, the Directorate General of Goods and Services Tax Intelligence (DGGI) has blocked 357 offshore online gaming websites and identified around 700 offshore e-gaming firms attempting to evade GST.

The move comes ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, as authorities tighten enforcement on illegal gaming platforms operating without proper tax compliance.

Massive Action Against Tax Evasion

GST intelligence officers have taken stringent action against illegal offshore gaming companies that failed to register, concealed taxable revenue, and bypassed tax obligations.

In addition to blocking 357 websites, authorities have frozen approximately 2,400 bank accounts linked to these operations.

The Finance Ministry issued a warning to the public against engaging with unregulated gaming platforms.

Use of Mule Bank Accounts

Investigations revealed that many offshore gaming entities were using ‘mule’ bank accounts to process transactions and evade financial scrutiny.

So far, 166 such accounts have been blocked. These illicit financial channels not only facilitate tax evasion but also pose risks to national security, as funds from these accounts could potentially be diverted for illicit activities.

Major Financial Seizures

In two separate cases, DGGI has collectively frozen nearly ₹126 crore across multiple accounts linked to illegal online gaming platforms. Some of the platforms under scrutiny include Satguru Online Money Gaming Platform, Mahakaal Online Money Gaming Platform, and Abhi247 Online Money Gaming Platform.

Authorities have arrested 3 individuals connected to these operations, with further investigations underway to identify more culprits involved in these illicit activities.

GST Compliance and Regulatory Measures

Under the GST law, ‘Online Money Gaming’ is classified as a supply of goods and is subject to a 28% tax. The Finance Ministry emphasised that all gaming entities operating in India must register under the GST framework.

With the IPL 2025 season approaching, regulatory actions are expected to intensify, ensuring stricter compliance among online gaming operators.

Authorities also highlighted the unfair market conditions created by non-compliant foreign entities, which undermine local businesses and distort fair competition.

Call for Responsible Gaming

The government urged players to use only regulated gaming platforms to ensure compliance with Indian tax laws and avoid legal repercussions. Unregistered offshore platforms continuously attempt to bypass restrictions by launching new web addresses, but regulatory agencies remain vigilant in blocking these illicit operations.

The Finance Ministry reiterated that tax evasion through online gaming not only harms the economy but also poses security threats due to potential links to criminal activities.

Conclusion

The DGGI’s stringent enforcement measures highlight India’s commitment to curbing illegal online gaming and ensuring tax compliance in the sector. As regulatory actions intensify, individuals engaging with unregulated gaming platforms should be cautious of the legal and financial risks involved.

The crackdown ahead of IPL 2025 marks a significant step in tackling tax evasion and promoting responsible gaming practices in the country.

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