Gadchiroli Aug. 24 (District Correspondent) Taking serious cognizance of the issue of online gaming raised by Gadchiroli-Chimur Lok Sabha MP Dr. Namdev Kirsan during the budget session of the parliament, the central government has recently prepared the “Regulation and Promotion of Online Gaming Bill, 2025” and the said law has been passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded session.
In today’s digital age, the online gaming is increasing at a rapid pace and its having serious consequences on society. As many citizens- from young children to the youth and the elderly, are becoming addicted to this virtual world, their mental and physical health is being affected, pointed out Dr. Kirsan. Due to excessive use of mobile phones and online gaming, children are neglecting their diet, which is also having a major impact on their health and studies. Along with this, as the amount of financial fraud in online gaming is increasing, children and adults are becoming mentally ill and committing suicide, is the government aware of this and what is the government’s role in preventing physical harm to children due to online gaming and financial fraud in online gaming, asked Dr. Kirsan.
MP Dr. Kirsan expressed his belief that this law will curb fraud being committed through online gaming, protect the mental health of youth and children, and an important step has been taken for a safe and responsible internet.
Some of the key features of the Bill are- all online games of the gambling type will be banned – those played with money will be declared illegal, provision of imprisonment up to 3 years and a fine of up to Rs.1 crore for violators, provision of imprisonment for up to 2 years and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh for those promoting, advertising illegal games, policy, control and licensing system for online gaming will be implemented by establishing an independent commission, legal recognition of skill-based, competitive and educational games, special provisions for mental health, data security and addiction of children and vulnerable groups.
