The Online Gaming Bill, 2025 was cleared by the Rajya Sabha, outlawing money-based fantasy apps, poker, rummy, and other games, impacting India’s $3.8 billion gaming industry. The bill prohibits harmful real-money gaming services and related advertisements due to risks of psychological distress and financial loss. This move poses a threat to the gaming industry, including popular platforms like Dream11, Games24x7, and Mobile Premier League. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha without debate, affecting online money games where users deposit money with the expectation of winning. Top cricketers and film stars endorsing these apps have increased interest in real money gaming. The bill aims to promote eSports and online social gaming while cracking down on harmful online money gaming, punishable by imprisonment and fines. Repeat offenses have enhanced penalties, making key sections cognizable and non-bailable. This legislation reflects the government’s concern for public welfare over revenue loss from banning online money games.
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