India Passes Law Banning Online Gambling, Jail Term up to 5 Years for Offenders
New Delhi: India’s Parliament has approved a new law that completely bans online gambling in the country, citing its harmful impact on society. Those found running or promoting such platforms could face imprisonment of up to five years.
The legislation, officially called the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, was passed late Thursday in both houses of Parliament. The law makes it illegal to operate, advertise, or finance online money-based games including poker, card games, and fantasy sports apps—platforms that had become hugely popular in recent years, especially fantasy cricket.
Why the Ban?
Government data showed that nearly 450 million Indians had collectively lost around $2.3 billion each year through online gambling apps. Officials said this widespread addiction had led to financial losses, family distress, and even cases of suicide.
A government statement said the measure is aimed at stopping “predatory platforms that make false promises of easy wealth and push vulnerable people into debt and ruin.” Authorities also linked the industry to fraud, money laundering, and even terror financing.
What is Still Allowed?
The new law makes a clear distinction between gambling games and e-sports. While gambling for money is outlawed, online games for education, recreation, and competitive e-sports will continue to be encouraged as part of India’s digital economy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while supporting the move, said the law would “save society from the harmful effects of money games” while also promoting healthy online activities like e-sports and social gaming.
Industry Concerns
Gaming industry representatives had earlier asked the government to regulate and tax the sector rather than impose a blanket ban. They warned that players might now turn to illegal offshore platforms outside the government’s control.
However, supporters of the new law argue that the social costs are far too heavy to allow the industry to continue in its previous form.
Union Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the framework sets a “clear boundary between constructive digital games and harmful, money-driven gambling apps.”
