Lok Sabha Clears Online Gaming Regulation Bill Amid Opposition Protests

The bill targets real-money gaming, aiming to prevent addiction, money laundering, and unchecked financial transactions.

In a significant move to regulate India’s booming online gaming industry, the Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill by voice vote. The bill aims to tackle rising concerns around addiction, financial fraud, and money laundering associated with real-money online games.

The legislation was tabled earlier in the day and was quickly passed despite loud protests from opposition parties. As tensions escalated, the house was adjourned following the vote.

The new law introduces sweeping restrictions on online games that involve monetary stakes. It also prohibits advertisements promoting such platforms, sending a strong signal to gaming companies and advertisers alike.

One of the key provisions in the bill is a ban on financial institutions and banks from facilitating payments for these games. This means digital wallets, UPI services, and even card transactions could be restricted from supporting real-money gaming platforms.

The government has argued that the bill is not against the gaming industry as a whole, but rather targets games that can lead to addiction or financial ruin. Lawmakers backing the bill stressed the importance of regulating the space, particularly to protect younger audiences from exploitative practices.

Industry experts believe this legislation could reshape the country’s online gaming landscape, encouraging companies to shift toward skill-based and non-monetary game models, or comply with new central regulations to continue operating.