The issue of illegal betting platforms and unlawful streaming services has resurfaced, with Star India suing 1xBet for allegedly illegally broadcasting the ICC Champions Trophy. This case shows the rising problem of piracy and unregulated gambling, which continue to thrive despite legislative crackdowns.
Star India’s Legal Battle Against 1xBet
Star India, the official broadcaster of major cricket tournaments, has initiated legal actions against 1xBet, a betting company allegedly responsible for the unauthorized streaming of the ICC Champions Trophy. These unauthorized streams cause significant monetary losses to genuine media houses as they violate broadcasting rights. The legal consequences and intellectual property theft are serious concerns regarding the increased threat of digital piracy often associated with unregulated betting platforms.
An FIR has been registered with the Bengaluru Cyber Police under the IT Act in connection with data theft and unauthorized extraction of video content from a streaming platform. The accused allegedly downloaded footage of an ICC Championship match from Hotstar and uploaded it to their website without authorization.
This is not the first time a betting website has been found illegally streaming live cricket matches. In the past, Star has initiated such actions against websites such as magicwin.games and ekbet.com. Star has also obtained a John Doe order against betting websites that are currently streaming the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 without any authorization. No arrests have been made so far, and the investigation is ongoing.
In its complaint, Star India stated, “Any telecast, … transmission … or streaming … without express permission of the company violates the copyright and broadcast reproduction rights of Star.” The police report further emphasized that “The owners and operators of 1xBet are fully conscious that they are hosting illegal content and are acting contrary to and in violation of law for personal gain. This is being done by them with the intention of causing wrongful gain to themselves and with intent to defraud the company.”
There has been more than one instance of 1xBet’s involvement in illegal streaming. In the past, the site has drawn criticism in several nations for allegedly encouraging gambling without adequate regulatory control. Its activities have ignited discussions over the efficacy of regulatory regimes in preventing unlawful betting and the dangers it poses, including consumer abuse and money laundering.
Celebrity Endorsements Fueling Betting Platforms
Celebrities’ clout keeps these gambling services popular despite repeated warnings from regulators and court judgments against them. Bollywood star Urvashi Rautela has been under fire recently for what many believe to be her promotion of illegal gambling services. This exemplifies a troubling pattern when influential people and celebrities support dubious products without conducting adequate research.
In addition to misleading customers, prominent people’s endorsement of these sites normalizes gambling among younger demographics. There are ethical questions regarding the role of celebrities in responsible advertising, especially in light of the numerous lawsuits filed against betting companies such as 1xBet. An increasing number of prominent figures are getting involved, which gives these platforms more credibility in the eyes of their fans, even as authorities are trying to crack down on unlawful betting.
The Need for Stronger Regulations?
The pressing necessity for more stringent enforcement of gambling regulations and digital rights is highlighted by the ongoing lawsuit involving Star India and 1xBet. Stricter punishments for illegal streaming sites and the influencers who support them should be instituted by industry watchdogs. Meanwhile, customers should be informed about the dangers of utilizing unlicensed betting websites.
The outcome of the ongoing legal disputes around these platforms will determine whether more stringent regulations will hinder their expansion or if they will find ways to stay operational. Unauthorized streaming and illegal gambling will continue to be a problem until authorities, broadcasters, and public figures work together.
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