As the anticipation for major cricket tournaments like the Asia Cup and World Cup builds, the government has taken a proactive stance to curb the proliferation of online betting Advertisements. In a stern Advisory issued on Friday, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting cautioned media outlets against featuring or promoting advertisements of online betting platforms. This measure aims to maintain the integrity of these sporting events and safeguard consumers, particularly the youth, from potential risks associated with gambling.

The advisory leaves no room for ambiguity. It underscores the government’s firm stance on preventing the display of advertisements related to betting and gambling platforms. This directive applies across diverse media channels, including newspapers, television, digital platforms, and social media.

“It may be noted that advertisements of gambling/betting platforms not only pose a significant financial and socio-economic risk for consumers, especially the youth and children, but have linkages to Money Laundering Networks, thereby threatening the country’s financial security,” the advisory said.

The government’s advisory is not a mere recommendation but a reminder of the legal consequences that media outlets could face if they ignore it. The advisory indicates that the government is ready to act appropriately under various legal statutes to ensure compliance.

“These advisories have stated that betting and gambling was an illegal activity and hence advertisements/promotion of such activities directly or indirectly on any of the media platforms falls foul of the various statutes, including under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, the Press Council Act 1978, etc,” according to an official statement.

The timing of the advisory is critical, considering the surge in betting and gambling advertisements that tend to accompany major sporting events, especially cricket tournaments. The advisory acknowledges this trend and aims to counteract it effectively.

With a subtle reference to the upcoming Asia Cup cricket tournament, set to commence on August 30 in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the advisory makes it evident that its scope extends to international events that hold great significance in the sports calendar.

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The core motivation behind this move is the protection of consumers, particularly vulnerable demographics such as youth and children. The advisory emphasizes gambling advertisements’ financial and socio-economic risks, highlighting the potential negative impact on these groups.

The advisory also delves into the linkages between gambling advertisements and money laundering networks. By curbing the spread of such advertisements, the government aims to safeguard the nation’s financial security.

This recent advisory is not an isolated event. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued similar advisories on multiple occasions. The recurrence of such directives demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to curbing the promotion of illegal betting and gambling activities.

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