Guwahati, Oct 4: The Gauhati High Court on Thursday has taken important measures to confront the problem of illegal offline and online lotteries in Assam, following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that brought the matter to light.
During the hearing, Amicus Curiae H.K. Das explained that only the State Government is permitted to organize lotteries under the Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998, and its accompanying rules. However, concerns were raised about individuals obtaining permissions from District Commissioners, with some reportedly approving requests without proper authority.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation due to the upcoming festive season, Das urged the court to issue a prohibitory order to prevent exploitation of vulnerable individuals through these illegal operations.
In response, R.K. Borah, Additional Senior Government Advocate for Assam, reported that 25 District Commissioners confirmed they had not granted permissions for any lotteries. Nevertheless, the state has not yet filed a formal counter to the PIL, though some affidavits have been submitted by District Commissioners.
The court stressed the necessity for the State Government to submit a counter affidavit detailing its plans to address illegal lotteries, allowing six weeks for this response. It also instructed District Commissioners and Superintendents of Police in Assam to refrain from issuing any lottery permissions.
Furthermore, the court ordered immediate action against any illegal lottery operations that are found, with directives to be issued within a week. A follow-up hearing is set for six weeks from now as the court continues to oversee the situation.
