The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a plea seeking a ban on unregulated mobile applications that promote gambling and betting activities.

A Bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela instead granted the petitioner liberty to approach the concerned authorities with a representation on the issue.

The petitioner's counsel today noted that the recently introduced law on online gaming, namely the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, does not properly deal with the issue of unregulated betting and gambling.

"The new law pertains to money games, and the PIL is restricted to online betting and gambling. It is silent on gambling and betting activities. I am seeking a ban on unregulated betting and gambling ... They (apps promoting the same) operate through the Google, Apple Store," he said.

However, the Court suggested that the petitioner first approach the government on the issue.

"Firstly, make a representation to the authorities (with your concern) that the ills will not be cured despite the new law. Then, we will see," Chief Justice Upadhyaya said.

The petitioner told the Court that he had sent a representation to the government on the issue in April.

The Court said that if he were to make a new representation to the government, raising his concern that the issues flagged by him have not been addressed in the newly enacted law, the authorities should promptly respond to the same.

"Since a new law has been enacted and even after the enactment of the law, if the grievances as per him are not redressed, he is allowed to make a representation to the authorities and draw attention to the running of such online apps. If the representation is made, the same shall be attended to by the authorities, and appropriate action shall be taken with expedition. Disposed of," the Court said while closing the plea.

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