Overview

• MeitY published draft PROG Rules on October 2 and invited public feedback until October 31, with the final notification and enforcement date yet to be set.
• The draft establishes the Online Gaming Authority of India in the NCR with quasi‑judicial powers to register games, maintain a national registry, issue binding directions, and impose penalties.
• A classification test flags an “online money game” where there are stakes or wagers, prior deposits, or winnings convertible to cash, enabling orders to cease operations, ban advertising, and list prohibited titles.
• Offences under key sections are cognizable and non‑bailable, with penalties up to three years’ imprisonment and ₹1 crore in fines, and authorised officers may search, seize, and arrest without warrant; banks and intermediaries are barred from facilitating related transactions.
• The rules create a registration and certification regime for e‑sports and online social games with certificates valid up to five years, mandate a three‑tier grievance system, and allow a 180‑day window to refund pre‑existing player balances after enforcement.