Shivani Gandhvi-
Published On: November 09, 2021 at 17:45 IST
The Karnataka High Court on the 9th of November 2021 extended its Interim Order that prevents the Karnataka Police from arresting Harsh Jain and Bhavit Seth, the Founders of Dreem11.
In a complaint by Manjunath, a 42-year-old cab driver, accusing the two of violating the law by continuing to offer their company’s gaming services in the state even after the State Government issued a notice banning online gaming platforms related to gambling and wagering of money, passed under the Karnataka Police (Amendment) Act, 2021, that came into effect on October 5th, 2021.
The company officials released a statement after the commencement of the new law, stating, “Following the recent media coverage, our Karnataka users have expressed deep concerns and anxiety about their safety and security. To allay our users’ concerns, we have decided to suspend operations in Karnataka. This decision is without prejudice to our rights and contentions under law. ”
The two founders moved to the High Court asking for the revocation of the FIR. The Court did not agree to the quashing of the FIR but directed the Advocate General to not arrest the two on behalf of the Karnataka Government.
The Court stated in its order, “The Interim Order is extended till the next date of hearing. AGA informs the Court that the Advocate General will address arguments in the matter. The Government pleader also wants to file a statement of objections. List after two weeks. “
Justice Sreenivas Harish Kumar extended the order to not take action against the two Accused, noting that the newly issued law bans certain online gaming portals under the Karnataka Police (Amendment) Act, 2021 is being faced with numerous Pleas challenging its validity.
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