Ban on Online Money Gaming: The Crucial Details

In New Delhi, lawmakers have introduced a bill that seeks to impose a strict ban on online money gaming. The legislation aims to criminalise any activity related to offering, facilitating, advertising, or funding online money games, marking a significant regulatory shift in the digital gaming landscape.

Under the proposed bill, both individuals and corporate entities, including their executives, can be held liable for violations. This comprehensive approach reflects growing concerns about the social and economic impacts of online money gaming, which has surged in popularity but raised issues related to addiction and financial risk.

Penalties outlined in the bill are stringent, with offenders facing imprisonment for up to three years and fines reaching Rs 1 crore. The legislation further stipulates that repeat offenders will be subjected to even harsher punishments, underscoring the government’s commitment to curtailing this activity.

Legal experts note that the bill’s broad scope could significantly affect the gaming industry and digital advertisers. Professor Anita Sharma, a media law specialist, commented, ‘This legislation represents a decisive move to regulate an industry that has outpaced existing laws, but its enforcement will require careful balancing of legal and technological challenges.’

As the bill progresses through parliamentary procedures, stakeholders across the gaming and technology sectors are closely monitoring its implications. The proposed ban aligns with global trends towards stricter regulation of online gambling and gaming activities, reflecting a heightened focus on consumer protection and ethical standards.