Illegal Lottery and Guessing Racket Expands Across Dhanbad
Brief By Newsbrief / 10:36 AM on 26 May 2026
Illegal lottery and guessing game operations are reportedly expanding rapidly in Dhanbad, raising serious concerns among local residents and social organizations. The issue is said to be particularly widespread in areas falling under the Jharia police station limits, where lottery ticket sales and alleged gambling-related activities are reportedly being conducted openly.
According to local residents, lottery tickets are being sold openly along main roads, at small roadside shops, and in public spaces across Jharia and nearby areas. Allegations have also surfaced regarding large-scale guessing games being operated at a community hall near a hospital in Baniyahir. Residents claim that the activities continue late into the night, attracting large crowds and involving open financial transactions.
Citizens and social activists say the illegal business is severely affecting poor families and daily-wage labourers. Many people, hoping to earn quick money, are allegedly losing their savings and falling into debt. Locals claim that several families are now struggling financially because of repeated losses linked to these activities.
Residents also allege that despite repeated complaints and public objections, no strong administrative action has been taken so far. According to them, the lack of strict enforcement has increased the confidence of those involved in the alleged illegal network. Some locals reportedly fear openly protesting against the operations.
Sources further suggest that the illegal lottery and guessing game business may be functioning through an organized network, with responsibilities for supply and operations allegedly divided across different areas in recent months.
Social organizations and residents have urged the district administration and police to launch a special crackdown against such activities. They emphasized that public spaces and community buildings should be used for social welfare purposes rather than for alleged illegal operations that harm economically vulnerable sections of society.