Karnataka confronts rising online gambling deaths amid industry boom

Karnataka is grappling with a disturbing rise in suicides linked to online gambling, with police records pointing to at least 32 deaths since 2023, most of them in Bengaluru. Behind the statistics lie families shattered by debt, secrecy, and social stigma, as victims across professions—from drivers and students to salaried employees—succumb to mounting financial losses.

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The pattern is grimly consistent: borrowed money, heavy losses on gambling apps, deception at home, and overwhelming shame that leads to tragedy. Recent cases include entire families taking their lives after falling into debt traps worth lakhs of rupees. Police officials reportedly admit the actual toll is likely higher, with many cases masked as missing persons or unexplained suicides.

Karnataka government in a dilemma

The crisis has placed the state government in a dilemma. While a 2021 amendment banning online games was struck down by the High Court in 2022, the state has challenged the verdict in the Supreme Court and is awaiting recommendations from a committee before considering fresh regulation.

At the same time, the online gaming industry is thriving. Valued at ₹3.7 lakh crore in 2024, the sector is projected to nearly double in three years, driven largely by real-money gaming apps. Analysts say this segment already accounts for the bulk of revenue and continues to attract heavy investment.

Mental health experts warn that addiction among youth is deepening, with symptoms ranging from disrupted academics to depression and suicidal thoughts. The surge raises a stark question: is online gambling quietly evolving into Karnataka’s newest social crisis?