Indian Parliament passes Online Gaming Bill to Ban all forms of Money Games

Parliament has approved the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which seeks to ban the operation, facilitation, and advertising of online money games. The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha and subsequently cleared in the Rajya Sabha by voice vote, aims to tackle rising concerns related to addiction, financial abuse, and misuse of funds associated with online betting and gambling platforms.

The legislation prohibits all forms of online money games involving monetary stakes, such as betting, gambling (including satta and jua), online fantasy sports, poker, rummy, and lotteries. It also bans advertisements promoting these games and restricts banks and financial institutions from processing related transactions.

Strict penalties have been introduced for violations. Advertising online money games may result in imprisonment for up to two years and/or a fine of ₹50 lakh. Facilitating financial transactions for these games can lead to up to three years of imprisonment and fines up to ₹1 crore. Repeat offenders face even stricter consequences, including three to five years in prison and fines of up to ₹2 crore. Additionally, offenses under key sections are designated as cognizable and non-bailable.

Despite protests from the opposition, the government defended the legislation, stating it is essential to curb gambling addiction and prevent the misuse of online platforms for illegal activities.