Online Gaming Legislation Approved by Rajya Sabha, Restricting Money-Based Platforms

The Rajya Sabha has approved the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill on Thursday, concluding the Monsoon Session. This action followed the Lok Sabha’s prior approval. The bill is designed to prohibit harmful online money gaming platforms, while encouraging the growth of e-sports and social online games. The bill was introduced in Parliament on Wednesday, following a brief statement by Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology. Its passage through the lower house occurred amidst opposition protests. The bill further seeks to prohibit advertisements for online money games and prevent financial institutions from handling or transferring funds related to these games. It also aims to outlaw all forms of online betting and gambling, including games like poker, rummy, and fantasy sports.