Natural8 India continues to be under fire, Bombay High Court refuses to dismiss allegations
While online poker has welcomed continuous growth throughout the years, it’s safe to say that the thriving industry has met its fair share of ups and downs. GGPoker, the largest online poker gaming network to date, has consistently tapped into new locations to expand its hold, of which includes the most populous India to its roster of operations among the latest.
Kunal Patni, Director – Natural8 India, said, “The launch of Natural8 India is aimed at realising that vision by delivering a differentiated, world-class online poker experience to Indian players”.
“Natural8 is finally bringing its global expertise and clear technological superiority to India to popularise online poker within the country. With Natural8 India at the helm of India’s nascent poker revolution, I cannot wait for the growth and opportunities that await it in the future”, added brand ambassador Nikita Luther.
Launched under Gamoski Networks via a licensing agreement, Natural8 India went live back in September 2023 and has since faced a number of regulatory issues only five months after the games were set in motion. Initially reported in February earlier this year, a First Information Report (FIR) was said to be filed by Goa Law Enforcement against parent company Gamoski Networks Private Limited and directors Kunal Patni and Sonia Madan Jain. Allegations of cheating, criminal breach of trust and gambling under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Goa Public Gambling Act, were of concern, leading to a potentially lengthy investigation.
The report indicates that authorities are looking into the client’s player history which may be infiltrated with foreign and unverified individuals in competition against Indian users. Aside from player issues and foreign deposits, the FIR also alleges that manipulation, usage of bots, and misappropriation of funds are being carried out. Administrative bodies Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Directorate General of Goods and Services Tax Intelligence (DGGI) have likewise started probing non-compliances and breaches under the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act (PMLA), Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) while also conducting checks whether proper taxes are being paid through and through. Authorities have hinted that online gaming sites such as Natural8 may be used as a channel for illegal foreign money transfers as well as other unlawful banking transactions.
“Our operations have been meticulously designed to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in India, guided by expert legal advice. We are staunch in our dedication to legal and regulatory adherence.”, commented Gamoski Networks in a statement sent to Gutshot Magazine back in February.
“In addition, our gaming platform has been rigorously tested to meet the industry’s highest standards for fairness and security. We are proud to confirm that our platform has cleared the relevant Random Number Generator (RNG) and technological standards, recognized as best-in-class within the gaming industry.”
Following this, the Bombay High Court comprising of Justices Valmiki Menezes and Karnik has since refused to dismiss the reports, suggesting a need to further investigate the allegations. It further added that while none of the online players have filed a complaint, that reason alone should not be enough to hold back authorities from looking further. The counsel for Natural8 India and its founders in reply, called the allegations ‘unsubstantiated and intended to harass the accused’ while still remaining to be under probe for a number of issues.
To date, the online platform continues to pump in the action with its local player base taking part in the ongoing Natural8 India Micro Festival available through July 7th. Natural8 India offers over 1000+ daily tournaments on site with a new game starting every 90 seconds on average becoming one of its main selling point to users in search of action day and night.
