New Delhi | August 21, 2025 | SKY LINK TIMES
The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, a landmark legislation that seeks to encourage e-sports and social games while imposing a complete ban on online money games and related activities.
The Bill prohibits not only money gaming services but also associated advertisements, promotions, and financial transactions.
🔹 Government’s Stand
Introducing the Bill, Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the measure aims to strike a balance between promoting legitimate online gaming and protecting society from harmful gambling practices.
“When it comes to society and government revenue, our Prime Minister has always chosen society. Never have we compromised the interest of society,” Vaishnaw told the House, urging unanimous support.
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The Bill was passed by a voice vote, despite some Opposition slogans.
🔹 Key Provisions of the Bill
- Three Categories of Online Gaming:
- E-sports: Skill-based games involving teamwork, strategy, and cultural exchange.
- Online Social Games: Non-monetary games like Chess, Sudoku, and Solitaire.
- Online Money Games: Games involving stakes or betting, now strictly prohibited.
- Penalties for Violators:
- Offering or facilitating money games: Up to 3 years in jail and/or â‚ą1 crore fine.
- Advertising violations: Up to 2 years in jail and/or â‚ą50 lakh fine.
- Repeat offences: 3–5 years in jail and fines up to ₹2 crore.
- Enforcement Powers:
- Authorised officers may investigate, search, and seize assets linked to offences.
- Officers can enter premises and arrest without warrant in certain cases.
Importantly, the Bill clarifies that players will not be penalised; instead, service providers, advertisers, and financial supporters will face consequences.
🔹 Addressing Social Concerns
The Minister cited multiple instances of families suffering due to addiction and fraud in money games, with cases of financial ruin, suicides, and links to money laundering and terror financing.
The new law is expected to boost India’s growing e-sports ecosystem while curbing harmful gambling practices in the digital gaming sector.
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