Game Fixing in India: Legal or Illegal? Unraveling the Truth

21 March 2025

Introduction

Game fixing, also known as match-fixing or spot-fixing, has been a controversial topic across the globe, particularly in sports and esports. It involves manipulating the outcome of a game to benefit certain individuals or groups, often for monetary gain through betting or gambling. In India, where cricket is a religion and esports is rapidly gaining popularity, the question arises — Is game fixing legal in India?

Understanding Game Fixing

Game fixing typically occurs when players, coaches, or other individuals involved in a sport or esport deliberately influence the outcome of a game. This can involve:

Match-Fixing: Predetermining the winner or loser.
Spot-Fixing: Manipulating specific events within a game, like the number of runs in an over or the time of a goal.
Point-Shaving: Deliberately underperforming to influence the point spread.

The Legal Landscape in India

In India, game fixing is illegal and punishable under various laws. While there is no specific legislation that explicitly addresses match-fixing in sports, it is prosecuted under several existing laws:

1. Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860

Section 415 (Cheating): Engaging in game fixing can be considered cheating, as it deceives the public and those who wager on fair outcomes.
Section 120B (Criminal Conspiracy): Game fixing often involves multiple parties conspiring to manipulate results, making it punishable under conspiracy laws.

2. The Public Gambling Act, 1867

Although outdated, this act criminalizes betting and gambling, which are often linked to game fixing.

3. The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988

If public officials or regulatory bodies are involved, game fixing can also fall under corruption-related offenses.

4. The Information Technology Act, 2000

In the case of esports or online games, any digital manipulation or cheating can be prosecuted under cyber laws.

Supreme Court’s Stand on Game Fixing

In the landmark case of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) v. Cricket Association of Bihar (2015), the Supreme Court held that game fixing and spot-fixing tarnish the integrity of sports and highlighted the need for strict regulations.

Betting vs. Game Fixing: Understanding the Difference

It is important to distinguish between betting and game fixing:

Betting: Involves wagering money on the outcome of a game, which is still a grey area in Indian law, except for horse racing and certain lottery games.
Game Fixing: Manipulating the outcome to ensure a predetermined result, which is strictly illegal.

Impact of Game Fixing on Sports and Esports in India

Loss of Credibility: Fans lose trust in the fairness of the sport.
Financial Impact: Sponsorships and advertisements may decline due to damaged reputation.
Youth Demotivation: Aspiring athletes may lose faith in pursuing careers in sports or esports.

Recent Cases of Game Fixing in India

2013 IPL Spot-Fixing Scandal: Several players and bookies were implicated, leading to severe repercussions for Indian cricket.
Esports Manipulations: As esports gains traction in India, concerns about digital match-fixing and manipulation have surfaced.

Government Initiatives and Preventive Measures

Formation of Anti-Corruption Units (ACU): Bodies like the BCCI’s ACU monitor suspicious activities.
Increased Surveillance in Esports: Gaming platforms are introducing AI-powered monitoring tools to detect foul play.
Proposal for Sports Law: Experts advocate for a comprehensive sports law to address game fixing and corruption.

Conclusion: Is Game Fixing Legal in India?

The short answer is No. Game fixing is illegal in India and punishable under multiple laws. As India continues to make strides in both traditional sports and esports, maintaining the integrity of competitions is crucial for the growth of the industry. Stronger laws and awareness can go a long way in safeguarding the spirit of fair play.

FAQs on Game Fixing in India

1. Can game fixing be considered a criminal offense in India?
Yes, game fixing can be prosecuted under sections related to cheating, conspiracy, and corruption.

2. Is esports game fixing treated the same as traditional sports?
Yes, esports game fixing is equally illegal and falls under cyber laws and other relevant regulations.

3. How can authorities detect game fixing?
Anti-corruption units, digital surveillance, and betting pattern analysis help detect suspicious activities.

Stay informed, stay vigilant! Fair play is the key to preserving the integrity of sports and gaming.