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Parliament has unanimously passed the Gambling Prevention Bill, replacing the outdated Public Gambling Act of 1867 with legislation designed to curb modern gambling and online betting. The new law introduces significantly harsher penalties, including up to seven years imprisonment and a Tk five crore fine for online betting offenses, and up to five years imprisonment and a Tk one crore fine for other online gambling activities. Traditional gambling offenses carry a maximum of two years imprisonment or a Tk 200,000 fine.

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The provisions could infringe on citizens' rights and potentially be used to suppress critical media.

The bill's passage comes amid warnings from opposition Members of Parliament about the potential for misuse of the enhanced police powers granted under the new legislation. MPs expressed concern that provisions allowing police to search, seize, and block websites or apps without immediate court approval could infringe on citizens' rights and be used to suppress critical media. They proposed requiring magistrate approval for seizures to prevent abuse.

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The provisions could conflict with the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed defended the police powers, arguing that prior court approval could allow evidence or gambling sites to be removed, hindering law enforcement. He stated that police already possess similar powers under other laws. Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam, while commending the government for the bill, regretted that proposed amendments were not accepted and urged vigilance to protect citizens' and human rights. The government stated that the rapid technological expansion of gambling, including its use for money laundering and fraud, necessitated the comprehensive law to maintain public order and safeguard the country's moral and economic balance.

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requiring prior court approval could allow evidence or gambling websites to be removed quickly, undermining law enforcement efforts.