Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which bans online games involving money, will help in saving the society from the harmful effects that these online money games have. PM Modi made an X post after the Parliament approved the proposed law.
He wrote, "This Bill, passed by both Houses of Parliament, highlights our commitment towards making India a hub for gaming, innovation and creativity. It will encourage e-sports and online social games."
He added, "At the same time, it will save our society from the harmful effects of online money games."
The Bill aims to ban the offering, operation, facilitation, advertisement, promotion, and participation in online money games and specifically targets platforms that host fantasy sports and card games involving monetary stakes. The Upper House cleared the Bill a day after its passage in the Lower House.
While presenting the Bill in the Rajya Sabha, Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described online money games as a “public health risk”, citing issues of addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and the financial ruin of many families. He said nearly 45 crore people have been affected, with losses amounting to ₹20,000 crore.
A motion by Opposition MP John Brittas to refer the Bill to a select committee was rejected by oral vote. The legislation will now require the President’s assent to become law.
Once enacted, the Bill will prohibit all forms of online betting and gambling, including fantasy sports, poker, rummy, card games and online lotteries.
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