HYDERABAD: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Wednesday announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to combat online betting, rummy, and other digital gambling platforms in the state.
Speaking in the Assembly, the Chief Minister said online betting had evolved into an international crime, necessitating robust measures to contain its proliferation. He stated that the existing punishments may not be adequate and hinted at possible revisions to impose stricter penalties under the law.
The Chief Minister also raised concerns about the increased circulation of banned substances such as gutka and stressed the need for a broader investigative approach. He noted that merely interrogating promoters of online gaming was insufficient and that the SIT would identify and act against all individuals and entities directly or indirectly involved.
Despite a ban under the 2021 Online Gaming Act, online betting continues to rise due to inadequate enforcement, leading to addiction and, in some cases, suicides, the Chief Minister said. He reiterated that the government would not compromise on maintaining law and order.
In response to opposition criticism on crime and public safety, CM Revanth Reddy cited incidents such as the Disha rape and murder case, the daylight killing of a lawyer couple, and the rape of a six-year-old in Singareni Colony—stating that these occurred under the previous administration, which failed to act effectively. He contrasted this with his government’s swift response in a recent case aboard an MMTS train, even when allegations involved a minister’s son.
He warned that creating false narratives around law and order would damage investor confidence. “Some BRS leaders seem pleased when Telangana is portrayed as economically unstable. Spreading misinformation for political gain is irresponsible,” he said.
The Chief Minister asserted that there had been no compromise on law and order during the Congress party’s 15-month tenure. He claimed Telangana ranked first in controlling inflation and in the collection of own tax revenues.
Addressing the Assembly, he urged BRS to adopt a more constructive opposition role, citing former Congress leader Jana Reddy as an example of responsible legislative conduct. Revanth dismissed speculation of imminent by-elections, affirming that Assembly elections would be held as scheduled in 2029.
On the topic of party defections, he clarified that by-elections are not automatically triggered by such events and said the matter is before the Supreme Court. “The government will abide by the court’s verdict. Until then, our focus remains on development,” he said.
Revanth assured all legislators that the government would address constituency issues regardless of party affiliation. He cited his recent meeting with BRS MLA Padma Rao, where immediate action was taken to resolve concerns in his constituency. He also affirmed that even Gajwel MLA’s requests would be considered seriously.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his commitment to public welfare and state development, calling on the opposition to offer constructive suggestions rather than indulge in baseless allegations.
