India's Fragmented Approach to Cryptocurrency Regulation Persists

India continues to rely on fragmented policies and enforcement measures for cryptocurrency regulation, lacking a clear and systematic legal framework. According to Odaily, while regulatory bodies have introduced tax systems and anti-money laundering compliance requirements for virtual digital assets, the legal status of cryptocurrencies remains undefined, with the market operating largely on regulatory notices, enforcement actions, and interpretative guidance. The report highlights that the Reserve Bank of India has repeatedly expressed concerns about financial stability and systemic risks. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance has strengthened oversight through tax and reporting rules. However, regulatory agencies have yet to classify cryptocurrencies as securities, commodities, or a separate asset class, leading to uncertainties in regulatory responsibilities. Additionally, overlapping regulations, unclear tax enforcement details, and enforcement actions against certain platforms have increased compliance complexity, affecting long-term planning for institutional investors and innovative projects. Analysts believe that without comprehensive legislation, India's crypto market will remain in a transitional regulatory environment.