Child Rights Panel Calls for Ban on Minors in Indian Casinos

The child‑rights panel, under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, issued a statement on Monday urging a nationwide ban on minors entering casinos. It cited studies linking early exposure to gambling with higher risk of addiction and financial exploitation, and called for amendments to the Gaming Act to enforce age restrictions. Casino operators have responded that they already verify age and that a blanket ban could harm tourism, urging a review instead of immediate prohibition. The proposal is slated for discussion in Parliament next month, with the government expected to respond in the coming weeks.