Bihar passed and notified the Bihar Gambling (Prohibition) Act, 2026 on August 13, 2026, repealing the 159-year-old Public Gambling Act of 1867. This new state law operates alongside the Centre’s Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 (PROG Act), whose rules were notified on April 24, 2026. Both laws now govern online gambling within Bihar, creating a dual regulatory framework.
The Bihar Act broadly defines gambling to include all wagering or betting activities, both physical and online. Under Section 17, the Bihar Act claims overriding effect over other state laws but not over central laws. The PROG Act explicitly states in Section 18 that it has overriding effect over other laws, including state laws. Therefore, in case of any conflict between the two, the PROG Act will prevail. Individuals engaged in online money gaming or gambling in Bihar could face prosecution under both laws, according to medianama.com.
This dual legal framework marks a significant development in India’s regulatory landscape for gambling and online gaming. The Bihar Act’s broader definition contrasts with the PROG Act’s more specific focus on online money gaming. The coexistence of these laws highlights the complexity states face in regulating gambling amid central legislation. The Bihar Act repealing the colonial-era Public Gambling Act also reflects a move to modernize gambling laws in line with contemporary challenges.
The Bihar Gambling (Prohibition) Act, 2026 took effect immediately upon notification on August 13, 2026. The PROG Act rules have been in force since April 24, 2026. Together, these laws establish Bihar’s current legal framework for gambling and online gaming, with the PROG Act holding precedence in case of any inconsistency.