On June 18, the government of Bangladesh gave preliminary approval to the Gambling Prevention Act 2026, aimed at combating online gambling and match-fixing, according to the Dhaka Tribune.
This new legislation modernizes the colonial Public Gambling Act of 1867, which did not cover contemporary forms of gambling.
The act stipulates penalties not only for gambling itself but also for organizing, facilitating, promoting, and providing technical support for illegal gambling activities. Offenders may face fines, imprisonment, or both, with specific sanctions to be determined during further revisions.
Before final approval, the document will undergo scrutiny by the Department of Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.