Pakistan prohibits most forms of gambling, reducing options for fans to wager on video game competitions. The 1977 Act for Prevention of Gambling is based upon the 1867 Public Gambling Act from the time the British controlled the region.
Pakistan’s 1977 Act for Prevention of Gambling sets the legal framework for the entire country bet on egaming. The Act effectively repeals previous legislation, such as Prevention of Gambling Ordinances for Punjab, Sindh, West Pakistan, and Baluchistan, according to legal experts.
Citizens found guilty of facilitating betting or participating in gambling activities face imprisonment and fines. Prolific offenders face strict punishment up to three years and fines of 2,000 rupees.
Legislation affords police the ability to enter any place under suspicion of serving as a gambling venue. Exceptions to the law include tourist venues, which the government regulates and only allows foreign gamblers to participate in gambling activities.
Despite the strict laws and regulatory oversight, gambling is a major part of Pakistan’s culture. According to online reports, crime syndicates and police control the gambling odds. While wagering on horse racing remains legal, online gambling opportunities attract citizens who choose to take a chance wagering online rather than frequent illegal bookies in the region.
It is simple to find online casinos, which are licensed and regulated in other regions. Plenty of online sites allow each interested Pakistan resident to set up an account and wager.