Suddenly, Betway isn’t working in India, and everyone’s asking why. What happened to one of our favorite betting sites? Is it blocked for good? We know you have lots of questions, and we're here to help answer them.
First of all, since October 2023, Betway is no longer available in India.
When you open their website, this is what you get:
Don’t worry. If Betway’s gone, there are still plenty of great betting sites to choose from. Betting in India is still on, and it’s as exciting as ever!
In this article, we’re going to talk about why Betway might not be available and show you some amazing alternatives. Stick with us, and we’ll make sure you have all the info you need to keep the betting fun going strong!
Is Betway Available in India?
No, Betway is not available in India anymore, having ceased its operations from October 1, 2023.
This move came in the wake of amendments made to the CGST Act 2017 in August 2023, which introduced a new taxation section, 14A, mandating tax payments by offshore gaming firms. This amendment placed a significant financial burden on such operators, including Betway.
Following this amendment, the government implemented a 28% tax on turnover for offshore gambling companies. This substantial tax imposition rendered it financially unviable for Betway to continue its operations in the Indian market.
Betway officially announced its decision to discontinue operations in India, indicating the amended tax laws as the primary reason behind this move.
It's noteworthy that Betway isn't the only betting platform to exit the Indian market around this time. Bet365 also stopped its services in India due to similar regulatory challenges.
Best Betway Alternatives for India in 2023
With Betway no longer available in India, players are now searching for other betting sites. Here are three alternative options, each with unique features and betting experiences:
22Bet
Pros:
- All the Sports You Love: Dive into the world of sports betting with 22Bet! Whether it's cricket, football, or kabaddi, this platform has it all, ensuring you can bet on your favorite sports and savor the excitement.
- Great Chances to Win: Step into the realm of online sports betting and seize the opportunity for big wins with 22Bet's competitive odds.
- Easy to Use: Navigate with ease through one of the most user-friendly online betting platforms, making your betting journey smooth and hassle-free.
- Bet on the Move: With the 22Bet app, indulge in online betting anytime, anywhere, ensuring you never miss a chance to place your bets.
- Lots of Ways to Pay: 22Bet stands out among online betting platforms with its diverse payment options, catering to your preference, be it card, e-wallet, or even cryptocurrency.
- Awesome Bonuses: Enhance your betting experience with 22Bet's impressive bonuses and promotions, giving you more bang for your buck.
- Live Betting and More: Engage in live betting for an adrenaline-pumping experience, and don’t miss out on the thrill of live casino games, all available at your fingertips.
Cons:
- Customer Service Could Be Faster: While help is always on the way, sometimes the customer service at 22Bet might take a bit of time to respond.
- Waiting for Withdrawals: Patience is key, as sometimes withdrawing your winnings might take a little longer than desired.
Overview:
22Bet stands as a powerhouse in the world of sports betting and casino games, offering a spectacular arena for those who love the thrill of gambling. This platform ensures that you have a plethora of sports and games to bet on, providing a diverse and exciting gambling experience.
The website and app are crafted for ease of use, ensuring that you can dive straight into the action without a hitch. With the added convenience of the mobile app, online betting has never been more accessible.
22Bet ensures that your betting experience is top-notch, offering a wide array of payment options, including the innovative use of cryptocurrencies. The platform also stands out with its generous bonuses and promotions, akin to the cherry on top of your betting adventure.
While the platform is almost perfect, there is room for improvement in the customer service and withdrawal speed departments. However, these minor hiccups shouldn’t deter you from enjoying the plethora of opportunities available on 22Bet.
In essence, if you're on the hunt for a betting platform that understands the heart of the Indian bettor, offers a wealth of opportunities to win, and provides a seamless user experience, 22Bet is your go-to destination. So, gear up and get ready to plunge into the exciting world of sports betting and casino games with 22Bet!
Parimatch
Pros:
- A Sports Buffet: Immerse yourself in a world brimming with sports at Parimatch! From the intensity of cricket to the strategic plays in kabaddi, and a sprinkle of football and basketball, they've got it all. And for the esports enthusiasts, you're in for a treat!
- Bonuses that Make You Go Wow: Kickstart your journey with a whopping 150% welcome bonus, setting the stage for a plethora of promotions that keep the excitement at its peak.
- Casino Galore: Ready for a whirlwind of fun? Dive into Parimatch's casino section, a treasure trove of both online casino games and live casino games, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
- Bet on the Go: With their sleek mobile app, the thrill of betting is always within reach, whether you're team Android or an iPhone aficionado.
- Pay Your Way: Catering to the Indian market, Parimatch offers a smorgasbord of payment options, from UPI to cryptocurrencies, ensuring your betting journey is smooth sailing.
- Help at Your Fingertips: Whenever you hit a snag or just have a query, Parimatch's customer support is there 24/7, ready to assist in both English and Hindi.
Cons:
- Kabaddi, We Want More: Kabaddi fans might find the betting options a tad limited. Here's hoping for an expanded selection in the future!
- Horse Racing Fans, Take Note: At the moment, horse racing betting isn't on the menu. So, aficionados might feel a bit left out.
Overview:
Parimatch isn't just one of the many online betting platforms; it's a celebration of sports and casino, crafted with the Indian bettor in mind. With a sportsbook that spans across both sports betting and entertainment, and a casino section that's a carnival of games, it's a one-stop-shop for all your betting desires.
The platform showers you with bonuses, adding a dash of zest to your betting adventure. And with their intuitive app, the excitement of betting is always just a tap away, ensuring you're always in the game.
Payment options are diverse and tailored for the Indian market, making transactions as easy as pie. And should you ever need a helping hand, their customer support is like a reliable teammate, always ready to assist.
While we're all for more kabaddi options and the inclusion of horse racing, these are just tiny blips in an otherwise stellar betting experience.
So, if you're on the hunt for an online betting site that truly understands the Indian pulse, offers a whirlwind of excitement, and is as user-friendly as it gets, Parimatch is your golden ticket. Dive in and brace yourself for a betting journey that's as exhilarating as a T20 final!
1XBET
Pros:
- Extensive Sportsbook: With over 120 betting markets, 1XBET provides a broad spectrum of sports betting opportunities, ensuring that there's something for every sports enthusiast.
- Competitive Odds: Known for offering competitive odds, the platform elevates the betting experience to a new level.
- Variety of Payment Options: With over 100 payment methods including UPI and various cryptocurrencies, 1XBET ensures a seamless deposit and withdrawal process.
- Live Betting and Streaming: Fantastic live betting features alongside live streaming capabilities enhance real-time betting experiences.
- Mobile Accessibility: A user-friendly betting app for both Android and iOS users makes betting on the go a breeze.
- Quality Promotions: Promotions and bonuses, including a 100% Up To ₹26,000 welcoming bonus, are part of the 1XBET charm, providing added value to your betting journey.
- Efficient Customer Service: Swift and effective customer service ensures that players' queries and issues are resolved promptly.
Cons:
- Account Limitations: The practice of cutting accounts and setting limits can be a turn-off for some players.
- Slow Payment Processing: A few complaints have been registered regarding slow payment processing.
Overview:
1XBET , a seasoned player in the online betting arena since 2007, presents one of the best online betting sites for Indian bettors seeking a wide array of betting markets. With a license from the Curacao eGaming commission, it upholds a level of trust and reliability that's crucial in the betting world. Moreover, its partnerships with revered sports entities like FC Barcelona underline its standing in the global betting community.
For the Indian bettor, 1XBET unfolds a realm of betting opportunities. The platform not only encompasses a vast spectrum of sports but also places a spotlight on cricket betting, a sport that resonates deeply with Indian fans. Its competitive odds ensure that bettors get good value for their bets.
The payment arena is where 1XBET really shines for the Indian audience. With over 100 payment methods including UPI and various cryptocurrencies, it caters to the diverse financial preferences of Indian bettors. The instantaneous processing of deposits ensures that bettors can dive into the action without a hitch.
On the flip side, the relatively smaller welcome bonus might not be as enticing to players who are used to heftier welcome packages. Moreover, some users have voiced concerns over slow payment processing during withdrawals, which could be a hiccup in an otherwise smooth betting journey. The practice of cutting accounts and setting limits can also be discouraging for some players.
1XBET's mobile app is a boon for those who prefer betting on the go. Available for both Android and iOS users, it encapsulates a seamless betting experience at your fingertips. However, the blocking of the bookmaker's website in certain countries could pose a challenge, although this isn't a concern for Indian bettors.
In conclusion, 1XBET presents a compelling case for Indian bettors to open an account, especially for those who value a plethora of betting markets and flexible payment options. While it has its share of drawbacks, the platform's commitment to providing a user-centric betting experience makes it a worthy consideration for bettors in India. The array of promotions and efficient customer service further augments its appeal, promising a conducive environment for bettors to thrive.
Conclusion
In the wake of Betway's exit from the Indian market, the quest for reliable betting platforms is natural. The newly introduced tax legislations have not only made Betway exit the Indian market but also Bet365, leaving a void for many bettors. However, the alternatives like 22Bet, Parimatch, and 1XBET offer a silver lining.
Each of these platforms brings something unique to the table. 22Bet stands out with its cryptocurrency support, Parimatch with its extensive sportsbook and Indian-friendly features, and 1XBET with its enormous payment method variety. Their commitment to providing a user-centric betting experience makes them worthy contenders for your consideration.
The essence of betting lies in the thrill of the game, the strategic play, and the sweet taste of victory. The exit of Betway is just a bend in the road, not the end. With viable alternatives at hand, the journey of betting continues in India. Embrace the change, explore new horizons, and may the odds be ever in your favor!
FAQs
Which country is Betway based in?
Betway has a global presence but is headquartered in Malta and Guernsey. The company also has support from various other places, including London, the Isle of Man, and Cape Town. Betway operates in several countries under a multitude of licenses, which helps it cater to a global audience.
Who owns Betway in India?
Betway operates under the umbrella of its parent company, Betway Group, which is the entity responsible for its operations across various regions.
Is Betway closed in India?
Yes, Betway ceased its operations in India starting from October 1, 2023. This was mainly due to amendments in the CGST Act 2017, which introduced a new taxation regime for offshore gaming firms. The new tax laws, especially a 28% tax on turnover for such companies, made it financially unfeasible for Betway to continue its operations in India.
How can I bet legally in India?
Betting laws in India are governed by both national and state legislation, and the legality of betting can vary from one state to another. Some states have more open laws regarding online betting, while others have stricter regulations. It's advisable to check the laws pertaining to online gambling in your specific state and also look for platforms that comply with Indian laws.
What countries can use Betway?
Betway operates in multiple countries across Europe, Africa, and other parts of the world under various licenses. However, it's important to check Betway's website or contact their customer service to get the latest list of countries where their services are available.
Is Bet365 allowed in India?
Bet365 also ceased operations for new registrations or deposits in India, similar to Betway. Existing users might still have access to their accounts. Regulatory challenges and new taxation laws have made the Indian market less favourable for some international betting platforms.
Is gambling illegal in India?
Gambling laws in India are complex and vary from state to state. While some states have legalized certain forms of gambling, others have strict prohibitions in place. It's crucial to understand the specific laws governing gambling in your particular state to ensure compliance.
Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
