HomePoliticsLok Sabha Passes Online Gaming Bill 2025: Blanket Ban on Money-Based Games,...

Lok Sabha Passes Online Gaming Bill 2025: Blanket Ban on Money-Based Games, Jail Term Up to 3 Years

New Delhi: In a dramatic session of Parliament on Wednesday, the Lok Sabha cleared the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 by a voice vote, despite loud protests and sloganeering from the Opposition benches. The legislation seeks to impose a complete ban on all forms of real-money online gaming, whether based on skill, chance, or a combination of both.

The Bill defines online money games as any digital platform where users deposit money with the expectation of cash prizes or material rewards. This ban directly targets fantasy sports apps, digital gambling platforms, online poker, rummy, and even web-based lotteries.

Once approved by both Houses of Parliament and signed by the President, violators of the law will face jail terms of up to three years and fines reaching as high as ₹1 crore.

Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, defending the Bill, said, “The aim is to encourage e-sports, educational games, and social gaming while protecting citizens from the devastating consequences of money-based gaming.”

He further cited disturbing data, claiming that in just 31 days, 30 cases of suicide linked to online gaming have been reported across the country. “Online money games are draining family savings, destroying households, and pushing vulnerable people into debt. This legislation is essential to safeguard society,” Vaishnaw stressed.

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