NEW DELHI, June 14 -- The Allahabad High Court has highlighted the inadequacy of the century-old Public Gambling Act, 1867, in addressing the modern challenges posed by online gaming and betting.

Noting that the Act applies solely to traditional forms of gambling, such as card games and physical casinos, the court took suo motu cognisance of the explosive growth in digital wagering and the resulting social and legal complications.

To explore whether fresh legislation is needed, Justice Vinod Diwaker directed the Uttar Pradesh government to form a specialized committee. Professor K V Raju, the state's Economic Advisor, will chair the panel.

The Principal Secretary will serve as Member Secretary, and additional experts from relevant fiel...