In 2025, gambling remains a controversial and sensitive topic in Bangladesh. The legal environment around casinos and gambling centers is very strict, and in most cases, gambling is not allowed. The government, courts, and religious leaders all view gambling as a threat to morality and social order. Although small exceptions exist, such as in horse racing and state lotteries, overall, the country continues to treat both physical and online gambling as illegal activities. This article explains the current gambling laws in Bangladesh, the status of casinos, and the growth of illegal and online gambling in the country.
Are Casinos Legal in Bangladesh?
No, casinos are not legal in Bangladesh. Under the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which still applies in Bangladesh, any form of public gambling or operation of a gambling house is illegal. This includes running or visiting casinos, card rooms, betting centers, and other gambling facilities.
There are no legally recognized or licensed casinos in the country. Any establishment operating as a casino is considered illegal and can be raided by law enforcement at any time. The law also allows for fines, imprisonment, and closure of such venues.
In 2019, a major crackdown on illegal casinos in Dhaka revealed how widespread underground gambling had become. Popular clubs such as Fakirerpool Young Men’s Club and Dhaka Wanderers Club were found operating illegal casinos. Many individuals, including political party members, were arrested during the raids. Since then, the government has taken a strong stance against any form of casino operation in the country.
What Does the Law Say?
The key law that deals with gambling in Bangladesh is the Public Gambling Act, 1867, which was inherited from British colonial rule. This law bans all forms of public gambling and declares any building used for gambling purposes as a “common gaming house.”
Under this law:
- Organizing gambling is a criminal offence.
- Visiting a gambling house is punishable.
- Fines and imprisonment can be imposed.
Apart from this, the Digital Security Act and Money Laundering Prevention Act are sometimes used to take action against those who organize gambling through online platforms or illegal financial channels.
Although outdated, the Public Gambling Act continues to be the main legal framework. The government has not yet introduced any modern gambling law to regulate the internet or digital betting platforms.
What Gambling Activities Are Allowed?
Despite the strict laws, a few gambling-related activities are legally allowed in Bangladesh. These include:
1. State-Run Lotteries
Lotteries operated by the government or approved agencies are legal in Bangladesh. The aim of these lotteries is usually to raise funds for social programs, such as education, disaster relief, or infrastructure. However, private lotteries or unauthorized draws are illegal.
2. Horse Racing
Betting on horse racing is legal but very limited. It is only allowed at licensed racetracks under the supervision of the Bangladesh Race Control Authority. This is a very small sector and not widely popular among the general public.
3. Games of Skill (Unregulated)
Games that depend on skill rather than chance (such as chess or carrom) are not considered gambling. However, if these games involve money or betting, they may be banned depending on the context.
Is Online Gambling Legal in Bangladesh?
Online gambling is not specifically mentioned in any Bangladeshi law. This creates a legal grey area. However, the government has made it clear that online gambling is not welcome. Many foreign online betting and casino websites are blocked by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
Still, some people use VPNs or international payment systems to access foreign gambling websites and apps. These activities are technically illegal, and the authorities occasionally take action against individuals or online agents who promote or assist in such activities.
In 2023 and 2024, police arrested several online gambling operators who were running apps through social media and messaging platforms. They were charged under the Digital Security Act and money laundering laws. Therefore, in practice, online gambling is illegal, even though the law does not clearly define it.
Are There Any Legal Casinos for Foreigners?
In the past few years, there have been discussions about setting up casino zones for foreigners in areas like Cox’s Bazar, with the aim of boosting tourism. Some officials proposed that Bangladesh could follow the example of countries like Cambodia or Nepal, where casinos are legal for tourists but banned for locals.
However, no official decision or law has been passed to allow this. Due to strong public opposition and religious objections, the government has not moved forward with this idea. As of 2025, there are no legal casinos operating in Bangladesh for foreigners or locals.
Punishment for Gambling in Bangladesh
Anyone caught participating in gambling activities can face the following punishments under the Public Gambling Act:
- Fine up to BDT 100 or more, depending on the offence.
- Imprisonment of up to 1 month for first-time offenders.
- Harsher penalties for repeat offenders or gambling organizers.
In case of online gambling, people may also be charged under:
- The Digital Security Act
- The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Act
- Money Laundering Prevention Act
Convictions under these laws can result in longer jail terms, heavy fines, and seizure of property.
Why Is Gambling Banned in Bangladesh?
There are several reasons why gambling remains banned in Bangladesh:
- Religious Beliefs: Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country where gambling is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam.
- Social Harm: Gambling is seen as harmful to families and society. It is associated with addiction, debt, mental stress, and crime.
- Lack of Regulation: The government does not have a strong modern regulatory system to control and supervise gambling activities.
- Public Opinion: Most people in Bangladesh oppose gambling and believe it should remain banned.
Current Situation in 2025
- All forms of casino gambling remain illegal.
- Government continues to shut down illegal casinos and arrest operators.
- Online gambling is widely used but illegal.
- No signs of legalization or regulation have been introduced yet.
- Only state lotteries and horse race betting are allowed under strict rules.
Conclusion
As of 2025, gambling and casino activities in Bangladesh are mostly banned under laws that have existed since colonial times. There are no legal casinos, and online gambling is technically illegal, though many people still access foreign sites. The government maintains a strict approach, supported by the public and religious bodies. Only a few forms like state lotteries and horse racing are legally allowed under specific conditions.
Anyone involved in gambling, whether physical or online, risks legal action and punishment. For now, the future of gambling regulation in Bangladesh remains uncertain, and no legal casino or gambling center operates openly under the law.
