New Delhi, August 20: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, banning all forms of online money gaming while promoting e-sports and social games like Chess, Sudoku, and Solitaire.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the move prioritises society over revenue, noting that many families have been devastated by gambling addictions, fraud, and suicides linked to money gaming.
The Bill prohibits offering, advertising, or facilitating money games—whether based on skill, chance, or both. Offenders, including service providers and promoters, may face up to 3 years’ jail and fines of ₹1 crore, with harsher penalties for repeat offences. Players, however, will not be punished.
E-sports will now receive legal recognition, with a dedicated framework to be created by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The government hopes the legislation will curb addiction, financial losses, money laundering, and terror financing linked to online gambling.
