Hyderabad: A public interest litigation has been filed in the Telangana High Court seeking the removal of advertisements promoting illegal online betting apps on Hyderabad Metro trains and Metro rail premises in Hyderabad.
The division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Yara Renuka heard the PIL filed by Nagurbabu, an advocate, also urged the court to direct the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to investigate financial transactions between the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) and online betting firms.
The petition also sought directions to restrain HMRL, its associated agencies, and contractors from displaying, promoting or facilitating advertisements for illegal offshore betting platforms, either directly or through surrogate branding on Metro trains, station premises or any public infrastructure under HMRL’s control.
Reviewing HMRL’s advertisement policies
Further, the petitioner contended that the Telangana CM may constitute an independent high-level committee, headed by a retired High Court judge, to review HMRL’s advertisement policies, ensure operational transparency, and recommend reforms to prevent future legal violations.
Moreover, the committee would also be required to submit periodic progress reports to the High Court.
HMRL Standing Counsel informed the court that some time may be given to file the affidavit that no betting app advertisements are currently being permitted in Metro Trains, Metro Stations, or other related areas.
