Dhaka, June 30 -- Parliament has passed the Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026, introducing tough penalties for online betting and a wide range of gambling offences.

The law also targets match-fixing, cryptocurrency-based gambling and operations run through virtual private networks (VPNs) and mirror sites.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed moved the bill during Tuesday's parliamentary session.

Following Opposition members' calls for public consultation, referral to a selection committee, and voice voting on proposed amendments, the bill was passed.

The new legislation repeals the existing Public Gambling Act, 1867.

The bill's objectives cite Article 18(2) of the Constitution, which commits the state to taking effective measures against gamb...