MP Gulam Ali Hails passage of Historic Online Gaming Bill

New Delhi : Senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Gulam Ali Khatana has praised the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which was approved by Parliament on August 21, 2025.
In a statement issued here on Monday MP Khatana described the legislation as a significant measure aimed at protecting Indian families, safeguarding youth, and promoting a safe and constructive digital economy. Khatana emphasized the urgent need for this Bill to combat the growing issue of online money games that have led to addiction, financial distress, and tragic outcomes, including suicides linked to debt from these games. The legislation imposes a complete ban on online money games, their advertisements, and related financial transactions, while granting authorities the power to block access to illegal platforms. Offenders face severe penalties, including up to three years in prison and fines of ₹1 crore, with stricter consequences for repeat offenders. Khatana commended the government’s commitment to addressing money laundering, cyber fraud, and national security threats associated with unregulated offshore gaming. Additionally, Khatana highlighted the Bill’s balanced approach, which acknowledges the positive potential of the gaming sector. By officially recognizing e-sports as a legitimate competitive sport, the Bill aims to foster skills, discipline, teamwork, and global exposure among youth. It also ensures government support for social and educational online games, promoting their role in learning and healthy recreation. Khatana asserted that this legislation will protect the middle class and youth from exploitation while delivering significant economic benefits. He noted that India’s gaming industry is rapidly growing and that the Bill will provide a structured framework to generate employment, attract investment, and enhance India’s global leadership in responsible digital innovation. He characterized the Bill as a visionary decision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring technology serves the people positively.