In a significant legal move aimed at protecting Pakistan’s social, financial, and moral framework, a citizen has filed a writ petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking a nationwide ban on online gambling applications. The petition has been filed by Chaudhry Tabir ul Haq, a resident of Islamabad, under Article 199 of the Constitution.

Represented by Barrister Imran Rashid and Advocate Waheed Ur Rehman Qureshi, the petitioner urges the court to take immediate action against illegal gambling platforms like Betway, 1xBet, Bet365, and others. These platforms are reportedly operating unchecked in Pakistan, using digital wallets such as Easypaisa, JazzCash, and SadaPay to conduct disguised betting transactions.

Key federal entities named as respondents include:

• The Federation of Pakistan (Ministry of Interior)

• Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)

• Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)

• State Bank of Pakistan (SBP)

• Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA)

READ MORE:

Imran Khan’s Nephew Shahrez Khan Released from Kot Lakhpat Jail After Bail Granted

The petition alleges that the continued operation of these platforms violates Islamic principles and national laws, such as the Public Gambling Act of 1867, the Pakistan Penal Code, and the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2010. It also highlights serious concerns over money laundering, financial fraud, and the psychological impact of gambling on Pakistan’s youth.

The PTA is accused of not utilizing its powers under the PECA 2016 to block these apps, while the SBP and FIA are criticized for failing to curb illegal financial flows. PEMRA is also cited for not restricting gambling-related advertisements on media platforms.

Citing Articles 2-A, 3, 37(g), and 227 of the Constitution, the petition calls for:

• Immediate banning and blocking of all gambling websites, apps, and ads.

• Direction to financial platforms to detect and prevent gambling transactions.

• FIA to investigate and prosecute individuals and entities involved.

• PEMRA to initiate public awareness campaigns and enforce ad bans.

The petition warns of potential consequences for Pakistan’s international reputation, particularly with organizations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), due to links with cross-border money laundering and cryptocurrency misuse.