08/17/2025
Duelbits is an online casino and sports betting platform that has gained global attention for its cryptocurrency-based operations and extensive gaming options. The platform offers casino games, live dealer experiences, and sports wagering, making it a popular choice among international players. However, the legality of accessing Duelbits depends entirely on the laws of the country in which a player resides, particularly when it comes to India.
India has a complex and restrictive framework regarding gambling and online betting. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 is the central legislation that prohibits running or being involved in a public gambling house. While this law is over a century old, it still provides the foundation for gambling restrictions in many Indian states. Importantly, online gambling was not considered when this act was created, which has left a significant grey area for modern digital platforms.
The Constitution of India grants states the authority to make their own laws on gambling. As a result, gambling and betting regulations vary significantly from state to state. For example, Goa, Sikkim, and Daman allow certain forms of regulated gambling, while most other states maintain strict prohibitions.
One of the most significant aspects of online gambling in India is that the majority of laws are directed at operators within India’s borders. Offshore platforms such as Duelbits are not explicitly addressed by Indian gambling legislation. This loophole has allowed many Indian players to access international platforms without direct legal consequences, provided they use online payment methods or cryptocurrencies to fund their accounts.
However, it is crucial to note that several states, such as Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, have updated their laws to explicitly ban all forms of online gambling, including accessing offshore sites. In such regions, using platforms like Duelbits could lead to legal repercussions.
Duelbits primarily operates using cryptocurrencies, which adds another layer of complexity in India. Cryptocurrency itself occupies an uncertain legal space in India, as it is neither fully banned nor entirely regulated. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has previously issued restrictions on banks handling crypto-related transactions, though these restrictions have since been lifted following a Supreme Court ruling. Despite this, the lack of formal regulation means that engaging in crypto-based gambling carries risks for Indian users.
While many Indian players do access Duelbits, the practice is not without risks. These include:
Duelbits is not explicitly legal in India, as the country’s gambling and betting laws remain restrictive and state-dependent. While offshore platforms operate in a legal grey area, Indian players using Duelbits must be aware of the risks involved, particularly in states with explicit online gambling bans. The combination of outdated legislation, regional variations, and cryptocurrency complexities makes the legal status of Duelbits in India uncertain, and participation remains a matter of individual risk and responsibility.