Case Listed for August 18; Court Assures Priority Hearing on Threat to Youth

New Delhi, August 1, 2025

Praja Shanthi Party President and founder of Global Peace Initiative, Dr. K.A. Paul appeared party-in-person before the Hon’ble Supreme Court today, urging urgent intervention against illegal online betting apps and the 1100 celebrities endorsing them. Following the hearing, the Court issued notices to all states and directed them to respond within two weeks, while listing the matter for priority hearing.

During the hearing before Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, Dr. Paul raised strong concerns about the unchecked rise of illegal betting apps, which he said are misleading and running nearly 300 million Indian youth, causing financial distress and even suicides. “Over a thousand national celebrities, including the ‘God of Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar are promoting these apps and taking anywhere between ₹1 crore to ₹10 crore per endorsement,” he stated in court.

Dr. Paul also shared that he had just returned from Yemen region this morning after successfully intervening to halt the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, adding, “That fight saved one life; this fight in India could save millions.”

He further pointed out that while only four states have taken any action, banned apps remain accessible via VPNs and new platforms continue to emerge. “Mahadev may be banned, but others keep replacing it. The betting mafia is minting billions while law enforcement drags its feet,” Paul said.

While the Court declined to issue immediate interim directions to stop celebrity endorsements and media promotions, it assured that the matter would be heard on priority. Justice Kant observed, “Let them file their replies, and we will ask the states to appear through standing counsel so that time is saved.”

Dr. Paul expressed gratitude to the Court and reiterated his appeal to the media and public to stand up against the deepening crisis affecting the youth of India.

The matter is now expected to be heard on 18th August .