Gulam Ali Khatana hails passage of historic online gaming bill

Srinagar, Sep 8: Senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Gulam Ali Khatana hailed the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which was passed in Parliament on 21st August 2025, describing it as a landmark step to protect Indian families, safeguard youth, and guide the digital economy towards safe and constructive growth.

Khatana said the Bill was urgently needed to address the rising menace of online money games that have caused addiction, financial distress, and even loss of precious lives. “Across the country, families have been devastated as youngsters lost their savings in predatory online games that made false promises of quick riches. In some tragic cases, the pressure of debt and loss even led to suicides. The passage of this Bill ensures such tragedies are prevented in the future,” he emphasised.

It should be noted that the said legislation completely bans online money games, their advertisements, and financial transactions linked to them, while also empowering authorities to block access to unlawful platforms.

Offenders face strict punishments, including up to three years’ imprisonment and fines of Rs 1 crore, with harsher penalties for repeat violations. Khatana lauded the Government’s resolve in tackling money laundering, cyber fraud, and national security threats that had been linked to unregulated offshore gaming platforms.

At the same time, the MP praised the Bill’s balanced approach, which recognises the potential of the gaming sector in a positive direction. “By officially recognising e-sports as a legitimate competitive sport, the Bill opens up new horizons for our youth. It encourages skill, discipline, teamwork, and global exposure. Social and educational online games, too, will now receive government support, ensuring that digital play contributes to learning and healthy recreation,” he noted.