Indian authorities issue new summons to Google and Meta over illegal igaming
The Indian government’s Internet oversight agency, Enforcement Directorate, has issued new summons to Google and Meta executives for 28 July after they failed to appear before the agency this week.
The summons is part of an ongoing money laundering investigation into illegal ibetting platforms that advertise using technology and media channels.
Officials said the executives had requested more time to gather the documents and information sought by the agency. The ED is expected to record their statements under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act on the rescheduled date.
The broader probe focuses on a growing network of banned betting platforms that continue to operate under new identities, often promoted by celebrities and social media influencers. These operations are suspected to violate multiple Indian laws, including those related to money laundering, tax evasion, and foreign exchange regulations.
Despite repeated warnings from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, advertisements for these platforms continue to surface across digital and traditional media. Prominent figures from entertainment and sports who have endorsed such apps are also under scrutiny and may face summons.
According to the Economic Times, the Indian igaming sector could be worth around US$9 billion by 2029, with the sector being mainly dominated by real-money games.
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