(Image source from: Twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw)
A new law to prohibit the operation, promotion, and marketing of online games where money is involved was approved by Parliament on Friday, despite strong protests from the Opposition, who claimed that the law was enacted without proper discussion. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill passed after a voice vote in the Rajya Sabha, just one day after it was approved in the Lok Sabha. This law aims to make online money gaming punishable by up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of as much as Rs 1 crore. Presenting the bill in the Upper House, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw stated, "Addiction to money gaming is similar to drug addiction. Those with power behind online money games will likely challenge this decision in the courts. They may also launch social media campaigns against this prohibition. We have witnessed the negative effects of these games and the way money can be used to fund terrorism."
During the meeting, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge expressed concern about the lack of discussion, while Union Minister Kiren Rijiju raised doubts about the possibility of having such a debate due to the ongoing protests from the Opposition. Along with wanting to discuss the bill, the Opposition was also calling for a debate on the Election Commission's focused revision of voter lists in Bihar.
An online money game is defined as a game where a player puts in money with the hope of winning money or other rewards. The bill bans all activities related to online betting and gambling—this includes everything from online fantasy sports to games like Poker, Rummy, and other card games, as well as online lotteries. The bill aims to prevent advertisements related to online money games and stops banks and financial institutions from processing payments for such games.
Promoting money games can result in up to two years in prison and/or a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh. Helping with financial transactions for money games could lead to three years in jail and/or a fine of up to Rs 1 crore. Repeat violations could lead to harsher penalties, including imprisonment for three to five years and fines of up to Rs 2 crore. Offenses under certain important sections are intended to be considered serious and not eligible for bail.
