The government has issued an advisory for social media influencers, warning them against promoting foreign online gambling and betting games. This advisory comes at a time when the IPL 2024 has commenced.
Details of the Advisory
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued guidelines specifically for social media influencers. They have been instructed not to endorse any advertisements that promote online gambling and betting games, particularly those of foreign origin. The ministry stated that such advertisements have a detrimental impact on the youth.
Social media platforms have been advised not to display advertisements promoting such games. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in action being taken against both social media influencers and companies advertising such games.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The advisory emphasizes strict adherence to these guidelines, stating that failure to do so will result in severe action under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Additionally, the government reserves the right to shut down the social media posts or accounts of individuals or companies found to be in violation.
Pre-emptive Action Before IPL 2024
The issuance of this advisory comes just before the commencement of IPL 2024, a time when promotions for online gambling and betting games typically surge on social media platforms. The government’s proactive stance aims to curb such promotions by urging social media influencers to refrain from participating in them. Non-compliance will result in punitive measures being taken against them.
The government’s advisory serves as a preemptive measure to safeguard the youth from the harmful effects of online gambling and betting games. It underscores the responsibility of social media influencers in promoting ethical content and discouraging activities that could have negative societal consequences.