India Central Bureau of Investigation Dir Ranjit Sinha on Tuesday said that "there was nothing wrong in legalising betting in sports," according to the Indian BUSINESS STANDARD. Sinha said, "If the government could make provisions for voluntary disclosure of black money, then there should be no harm in legalizing betting." Responding to a query on betting in a panel discussion on ethics and integrity in sports and the role of CBI, Sinah "drew a comparison between legalising of betting and activities such as lotteries and casinos, which are legal (to some extent)." Stressing the need to "have stricter vigilance in these matters," Sinha asked, "Do we have the enforcement agencies to monitor such crimes?" (BUSINESS STANDARD, 11/13). Sinha said, "It is better to legalize it and earn some revenue rather than throwing up your hands." Cricketer Rahul Dravid said, "I think if the law enforcement authorities actually do feel that legalizing betting will lead to better governance and reduce corruption then I am all for it" (TNN, 11/13).
