Betting Trap Engulfing Youth: Senior IPS Officer Sajjanar Warns Public
Senior IPS officer Sajjanar has issued a strong warning regarding the increasing influence of online betting apps, particularly among the youth. Highlighting the severe financial and social consequences of betting addiction, he urged people to remain vigilant against such platforms.
Sajjanar expressed concern over social media influencers with large followings promoting betting apps for financial gain, misleading the youth. He emphasized that legal action has already been taken against several such individuals. “Many social media influencers are endorsing betting apps, believing it to be an easy way to earn money. Over the past few months, I have been posting warnings about these apps on Twitter and Instagram. Recently, the Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner also registered a case against a social media influencer for the same. No one is above the law. Promoting betting apps will lead to criminal cases, loss of credibility, and legal troubles. It is not worth jeopardizing your future,” he cautioned.
Referring to cases where individuals have taken loans for betting and, unable to repay them, resorted to suicide, Sajjanar urged people not to download these apps or trust influencers promoting them. He advised those who have suffered losses to immediately report to the police.
He also stated that the government should consider implementing a legal ban on online betting platforms. While states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have already outlawed betting, he pointed out that online betting remains widespread and should be addressed at the central level.
Sajjanar further warned people against various forms of online fraud, including chain systems, OLX scams, OTP frauds, and investment scams. He stressed the importance of spreading awareness to combat these threats.
With thousands of betting apps available in the market, he urged the public not to trust YouTubers or promoters endorsing them. He also called on cricketers, film actors, television personalities, and social media influencers to refrain from promoting such platforms for monetary benefits. “Hard work is the only reliable way to earn money. Seeking shortcuts to wealth often leads to heavy losses,” he remarked.
The senior officer noted that his call to boycott YouTubers promoting betting apps has received strong public support. He expressed satisfaction that the "Say No to Betting Apps" movement is gaining momentum.
Concluding his message, Sajjanar urged parents to monitor their children's behavior, particularly if they frequently ask for money or use loan apps. He advised immediate counseling for those showing signs of gambling addiction. He also announced upcoming awareness programs on cybercrimes in collaboration with the Cyber Security Bureau to educate the public on these issues.
