Prime Minister Narendra Modi has endorsed the newly passed Online Gaming Bill, calling it a landmark step to safeguard society from the dangers of online money games while opening doors for India’s esports sector. The Bill, passed by both Houses of Parliament, bans the operation, facilitation, and promotion of online money games that fuel addiction, fraud, and money laundering. At the same time, it distinguishes between skill-based activities like esports and real-money gaming, giving esports legal recognition and government-backed support.

PM Modi, in a post on X, said the Bill will help India become a hub for gaming, innovation, and creativity, while protecting families from the destructive impact of gambling-like platforms. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also underlined the social dangers of money games, pointing to rising cases of fraud, massive debts, and even suicides linked to gaming addiction.

Strict Ban And Penalties For Money Games

The legislation takes a zero-tolerance approach. Online money games and their advertisements are now illegal, with banks and intermediaries barred from enabling related transactions. Platforms and individuals violating Section 5 of the Act face up to three years in prison, fines of up to Rs 1 crore, or both. Misleading advertisements of banned games invite penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment and fines of Rs 50 lakh. Repeat offenders face harsher punishments, with jail terms extending up to five years and fines reaching Rs 2 crore.

While the Bill has been welcomed as a step toward responsible gaming, concerns remain about job losses in the online gaming sector and reduced government revenue from taxes. Popular platforms such as Dream11, which play a major role in sports sponsorships, especially cricket, may be affected. Even so, the government insists the legislation will bring long-term benefits by curbing addiction, protecting consumers, and creating a safe environment for esports and innovation in India’s gaming industry.