India Takes Bold Step: Online Money Games Banned to Safeguard Society

Parliament passed a bill to ban online money games while promoting eSports and social gaming. The legislation, aimed at curbing addiction and financial loss, prohibits ads and financial transactions related to such games, imposing fines and imprisonment for violators. The move addresses public health risks and societal harm.

Amidst public outcry over the societal impact of online money games, the Indian Parliament has taken a decisive step by passing legislation to ban such activities. The bill seeks to prohibit any form of online gambling that poses a public health risk, particularly to middle-class families and youth.

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, received swift approval during a chaotic session in the Rajya Sabha. With this law, the government aims to promote eSports and social gaming, regarded as safer alternatives, while cracking down on the financial and psychological toll of online money games.

Minister of Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the urgency of the bill, citing the enormous financial loss to families and the psychological disorders linked to gaming addiction. The legislation forbids advertisements and financial transactions for online games and introduces severe penalties for non-compliance, aligning with global recognition of gaming disorders.

(With inputs from agencies.)