India’s Parliament Passes Bill Banning Real-Money Gaming
India’s Parliament has approved the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, a sweeping law that bans all forms of real-money online gaming, including fantasy sports, poker, rummy, and betting platforms.
The bill, which awaits President Droupadi Murmu’s assent, also prohibits related advertising and financial transactions, with offenders facing fines and possible jail terms.
The government said the legislation was necessary to protect citizens from the financial and psychological risks linked to gambling-style games.
IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw defended the ban, describing online betting as a “social evil” comparable to substance abuse.
He confirmed that a new regulatory body, the National Online Gaming Commission (NOGC), will soon be established to oversee non-monetary online games, esports, and consumer safeguards such as age verification and self-exclusion tools.
The decision has triggered major disruption across the gaming sector. Popular platforms including Dream11, MPL, Zupee, PokerBaazi, and Dream Sports have suspended their real-money operations following the bill’s passage.
Industry estimates suggest the ban could wipe out revenues worth over ₹23,000 crore, while investors fear heavy job losses and a slump in advertising tied to cricket and esports.
Critics have warned of severe economic fallout. Anupam Mittal, founder of Shaadi parent firm, described the move as “moral policing dressed up as policy,” cautioning that it could fuel black-market gambling while depriving the government of over ₹20,000 crore in annual tax revenue.
The All-India Gaming Federation has also appealed for reconsideration, urging regulation instead of a blanket ban.
Supporters, however, hailed the law as a necessary step to curb addiction and cybercrime. Telangana police officer V.C. Sajjanar, who has long campaigned against betting apps, called the decision “historic.”
The ban also raises enforcement challenges, as experts note that offshore operators may use cryptocurrency, proxy websites, and mule accounts to bypass restrictions.
Meanwhile, questions remain over the impact on Indian cricket, where gaming firms such as Dream11 have been key sponsors of the IPL and national team.
Analysts say the legislation could reshape India’s digital entertainment industry, once projected to reach $3.6 billion by 2029. While the government promises to support esports and free-to-play formats, legal battles from affected companies appear imminent.
