New Law in India Prohibits Online Money Gaming After Rajya Sabha Vote

Following approval from the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha has now passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill. The passage occurred on Thursday, during the final day of the Monsoon Session. This new law aims to restrict detrimental online money gaming platforms, while encouraging the development of e-sports and social online games. The bill’s introduction in Parliament took place on Wednesday, with Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw overseeing the process. The lower house approved the bill even as opposition parties voiced their dissent. A key component of the legislation is the prohibition of advertisements for online money games, along with measures to prevent banks and financial institutions from facilitating related financial transactions. The bill also seeks to outlaw all online betting and gambling activities, including games such as poker, rummy, and fantasy sports.