Online Gaming Bill 2025 Passed in Parliament Amid Protests

Parliament approved the Online Gaming Bill 2025 on Friday, banning money-based online games and their advertisements. The move triggered heated protests, with Opposition parties accusing the government of rushing the bill without debate.

What the Online Gaming Bill Says ?

IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced the bill and compared gaming addiction to drug abuse. He argued that such platforms not only destroy families but also risk becoming channels for terror financing.

The law lays out strict punishments:

• Run or promote banned games → Up to 3 years in jail or a ₹1 crore fine.
• Advertise these games → 2 years in prison or a ₹50 lakh fine.
• Banks and financial firms cannot handle payments for such platforms.
• Repeat offenders → 5 years in jail and fines up to ₹2 crore.

Since all offences remain non-bailable, enforcement will stay firm.

Opposition’s Objection

Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge accused the government of “bulldozing” Parliament by pushing the bill through without proper discussion. He also demanded a debate on the Election Commission’s voter roll revision in Bihar, but the government refused.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju hit back, saying Opposition disruptions left no room for debate. The clash led to loud protests, slogans, and walkouts. Despite the uproar, the government cleared the bill with a voice vote.

How It Affects Gamers and Industry ?

The Online Gaming Bill 2025 directly affects apps offering fantasy cricket, rummy, poker, and other money-based games. For players, the warning is clear: betting online can now bring criminal charges.

Supporters argue the law protects families from gambling addiction and financial losses. Critics counter that the ban could harm India’s fast-growing gaming sector, which has been creating jobs and attracting global investment. The battle between regulation and growth is far from over.

For more insights into India’s laws, check PRS Legislative Research.

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