Mumbai: The Indian government has imposed a nationwide ban on online money gaming, a decision that has been warmly welcomed by the Muslim community in Mumbai. The community highlighted the severe social and financial harm such platforms have caused to individuals and families.
Online gambling has been widely criticized for its addictive nature, often leading to financial ruin, overspending, and mounting debt. Experts have also linked it to mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, depression, and sleep disorders that can affect concentration and productivity.
The move comes with the enactment of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which received presidential assent from Droupadi Murmu on Friday. The Bill was passed in record time — the Rajya Sabha approved it in just 26 minutes, following the Lok Sabha’s approval in seven minutes, despite protests from the opposition.
Under the new law, all online money gaming services are banned across India. Operators face up to three years in jail and fines of up to ₹1 crore, while promoters and advertisers could face up to two years in prison and fines up to ₹50 lakh.
E-sports and social gaming will continue to be encouraged, but money-based online games are now illegal to protect citizens, particularly youth and vulnerable groups, from exploitation.
Muslims in Mumbai expressed relief and appreciation for the ban, describing it as a much-needed step to shield families from the social and financial consequences of gambling.
