New Delhi: The central government said it was compelled to introduce a bill to regulate online gaming after estimating annual losses of over ₹20,000 crore. More than 45 crore people fall victim to online games every year. Gambling and betting have been included under the new bill’s scope. Several MPs had flagged issues such as subscription fees for money-based games. The government said it is prioritizing citizens’ mental well-being over revenue from such games.
The bill highlights problems such as addiction, fraud, and legal loopholes. Players will not face punishment, but platforms running the games will be targeted. Running gambling apps could lead to 3 years’ imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 crore, while promoting such apps may attract 2 years’ jail and a ₹50 lakh fine.
