India’s parliament has passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, effectively banning all real-money gaming. This move jeopardizes an industry valued at approximately ₹2 trillion ($23 billion) and threatens over 200,000 jobs. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated it prioritizes societal welfare, yet critics, including Meghna Bal, argue it targets compliant businesses while ignoring illegal offshore gambling. The bill includes severe penalties for participants and promoters of real-money games, raising industry concerns.
India’s parliament has passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, effectively banning all real-money gaming. This move jeopardizes an industry valued at approximately ₹2 trillion ($23 billion) and threatens over 200,000 jobs. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated it prioritizes societal welfare, yet critics, including Meghna Bal, argue it targets compliant businesses while ignoring illegal offshore gambling. The bill includes severe penalties for participants and promoters of real-money games, raising industry concerns.