Bhubaneswar, Dec 2: The Odisha government is set to introduce a new law to impose a complete ban on gambling activities across public spaces, including markets, fairs, and streets.

The proposed legislation, tabled in the Assembly, significantly increases penalties for offenders, signalling a strict crackdown on gambling practices.

Under the new provisions, fines that previously stood at ₹100 will now be raised to ₹25,000. Similarly, penalties of ₹1,000 will be hiked to ₹75,000. This sharp escalation in fines reflects the government’s intent to deter gambling and related activities. The bill is currently awaiting passage in the Assembly.

The law also extends to animal and bird fights, with individuals involved in organizing or assisting such events facing heavy fines. Government officials have been empowered to immediately present offenders before the Sub-Divisional Magistrate without delay, ensuring swift legal action.

Meanwhile, police have intensified ground-level enforcement. On Monday, Lailkera police conducted a raid in Kankakumar forest under Tileimal Panchayat following a tip-off about gambling activities.

Led by Officer Dilip Behera, the team apprehended three gamblers engaged in card games. Authorities seized ₹6,630 in cash, three sets of playing cards, and six motorcycles from the spot. Several other gamblers managed to flee into the forest upon seeing the police.

The arrested individuals were identified as Ranjit Purti, Bikas Prasad, and Biplab Sarkar from Govindpur area under Bamra police station in Sambalpur district. A case has been registered at Lailkera police station, and the three accused were produced in court on Monday. The raid was supported by the night patrolling team of Lailkera police.