India Blocks Prediction Markets As Polymarket Goes Dark Nationwide

India has started a major crackdown on prediction markets, with Polymarket now completely inaccessible for users in the country. The platform shows a connection error, and repeated attempts to access it are failing after a government directive ordered internet providers to block certain betting-style websites.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has reportedly instructed internet service providers to restrict access, with Polymarket identified as one of the main targets.

Kalshi could be blocked next in India

While Polymarket is already down, Kalshi, a U.S.-regulated prediction platform, is still working in India for now. However, local media reports say it may be blocked soon as well.

Sources within MeitY suggest that a blocking order has already been issued for Polymarket, and a similar order for Kalshi could follow shortly.

Prediction markets treated as illegal online money gaming

Indian authorities classify prediction markets as prohibited online money gaming under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025.

These platforms allow users to bet on outcomes like elections, financial prices, and real-world events, which regulators consider gambling-like activity rather than financial trading.

VPN advisory led to stricter enforcement

The crackdown follows an April 25 advisory where VPN providers were warned that users were still accessing blocked betting platforms despite earlier restrictions. Internet providers were then told to cut access more strictly.

Wider crypto policy context in India

India maintains a strict stance on digital assets, with heavy taxation including a 30% tax on gains and 1% TDS on transactions, which has reduced trading activity. Authorities also apply anti-money laundering rules through financial intelligence units.

Regulators continue to monitor crypto activity closely, citing concerns over illegal flows and capital movement.