Online Gambling & 1xBet Laws in Nepal: The Legal Risks (2025)

The Rise of “Easy Money” Traps

In recent years, platforms like 1xBet, Bet365, and various online slot apps have aggressively targeted Nepali youth. With promises of quick returns on sports betting or casino games, many are tempted to join.

However, Online Gambling is strictly illegal in Nepal. The consequences go far beyond just losing your money—you risk criminal prosecution.

1. What Does the Law Say?

Gambling in Nepal is governed by the National Penal Code 2074 (Muluki Aparadh Samhita).

Section 125: Prohibition on Gambling

This section explicitly prohibits playing or causing others to play gambling activities.

• Definition: “Gambling” includes any game of chance where money or property is wagered. This fully covers online betting platforms.
• Punishment:
  • First Time Offender: Imprisonment up to 3 months and/or fine up to NPR 30,000.
  • Repeat Offender: Imprisonment up to 1 year and/or fine up to NPR 50,000.

Warning: You do not need to be an “agent” to be arrested. Even individual users placing bets can be prosecuted.

2. The Crypto Connection (The Double Crime)

Most online betting sites in Nepal operate using cryptocurrency (USDT, Bitcoin) or unauthorised digital wallet transfers (hundi) because Nepali bank cards are blocked for these merchants.

Using crypto adds a second layer of crime:

• Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has banned all cryptocurrency trading.
• If you are caught using USDT to fund your 1xBet account, you can be charged under Foreign Exchange (Regulation) Act.
• Punishment: Confiscation of the amount and a fine up to 3 times the disputed value, plus imprisonment. This is often stricter than the gambling charge itself.

3. The “Agent” Trap

Many young people are lured into becoming “agents” or “promo code distributors” for 1xBet via TikTok or Facebook.

• Promoting Gambling is a Crime: Under the Advertisement (Regulation) Act, 2076, advertising gambling services is a punishable offense.
• Celebrity Arrests: In June 2023, Nepal Police arrested several popular YouTubers and artists (e.g., ‘Balchhi Dhurbe’ and others) for promoting 1xBet. The precedent is set: influence does not grant immunity.

4. Cyber Bureau Surveillance

The Nepal Police Cyber Bureau actively monitors social media and transaction patterns.

• Suspicious high-volume transactions in digital wallets (eSewa, Khalti, IME Pay) are flagged.
• If your bank account receives money from a known gambling agent, your account gets frozen, and you will be summoned for investigation (Banking Kasur).

Conclusion

The thrill of a potential win on 1xBet is not worth the risk of a criminal record. In 2025, with tighter digital surveillance and strict banking compliance, the chances of getting caught are higher than ever.

Legal Advice: If you are facing legal trouble regarding banking transactions or gambling accusations, stop all activity immediately and consult a legal professional.