The Case for Banning Real-Money Online Gaming in India
The recent passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 has sparked a nationwide debate, with platforms like A23 Rummy challenging its constitutionality in court. However, when examined in the context of India’s socio-economic realities, this ban is not only justified but also a critical step towards protecting vulnerable citizens and ensuring responsible digital governance. Online Gaming: A Silent Epidemic In the last decade, online real-money gaming has become widely accessible, with platforms offering games like rummy, poker, and fantasy sports easily downloadable from app stores. These games often lure players with welcome bonuses and advertisements, promoting the illusion of quick financial gains. However, this accessibility has led to devastating consequences : Families have lost savings, assets, and livelihoods to addictive gaming platforms. There are increasing reports of mental health crises, suicides, and family breakdowns linked to gambli...