Despite being prohibited by the Public Gambling Act of 1867, gambling remains a persistent issue in Bangladesh. Weak enforcement of the law and the rise of online platforms have made it increasingly difficult to curb the practice.
The existing law is nearly 150 years old and fails to account for the complexities of modern gambling, particularly the digital variety. Online gambling websites, often hosted overseas, operate beyond the jurisdiction of Bangladeshi authorities. Many of these platforms target local users, using regional languages and payment gateways to make participation seamless.
“The outdated legal framework is our biggest hurdle,” admitted a senior official from the Ministry of Home Affairs. “We need modern legislation that addresses the realities of today’s digital world.”
Enforcement is another challenge. While police regularly raid illegal gambling dens, these efforts are often undermined by the rapid growth of new operations. Corruption within law enforcement agencies has also been reported, with some officials allegedly turning a blind eye to gambling activities.
Legal experts argue that comprehensive reform is necessary. Suggestions include creating specialized cybercrime units to monitor and block online gambling sites, as well as establishing international partnerships to tackle cross-border platforms.
Public awareness campaigns could also play a critical role. Educating citizens about the legal and personal risks of gambling may help reduce participation, easing the burden on law enforcement.
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