Overview

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi said gaming is acceptable but gambling is harmful, citing addiction, debt and suicides as reasons for the new curbs.
• The Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice B R Gavai agreed to list next week the Centre’s plea to transfer similar challenges from the Karnataka, Delhi and Madhya Pradesh high courts.
• The Union government also sought a stay on ongoing high-court proceedings to avoid conflicting rulings while the transfer petition is considered.
• The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 bans all real-money online games, prohibits advertisements and payment facilitation, and classifies violations as cognisable and non-bailable.
• Penalties under the Act include imprisonment of up to three years or fines up to ₹1 crore, with the government preparing rules and FAQs following initial stakeholder consultations.