The government has taken a big step on real money gaming (RMG) in India. Under the new law 'Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025', real money games have been completely banned. With this decision, big platforms like Dream11, MPL, PokerBaazi have stopped their money games. Let us know the effect of this ban and important things related to it.
Why was this decision taken?
IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnav said that many problems were increasing in the society due to real money games. Especially the lower and middle class people were losing lakhs of rupees in gambling and betting addiction.
Due to this, cases of suicide were also increasing. The government believes that these games are not only causing financial loss, but are also promoting mental health and addiction problems. The threat of money laundering through digital wallets and crypto was also a major reason.
Which platforms are affected?
This ban has directly affected the top 10 RMG companies of India. These include:
- Dream11
- MPL
- PokerBaazi
- Games24x7 (My11Circle)
- Winzo
- Jupi
- Junglee Rummy
- Gameskraft
- Head Digital Works
- Probo
These platforms have stopped their real money games. Dream11 and My11Circle have stopped fantasy games, while Jupi has continued free-to-play games like Ludo Supreme. MPL and Gameskraft have banned new deposits, but users can withdraw their money.
What do the new rules say?
The new law clearly states that real money games, their promotions or transactions will not be allowed. Companies breaking the rules can be fined up to Rs 1 crore and jailed for 3 years. There is a provision of fine up to Rs 50 lakh and 2 years imprisonment on promoters. The government says that this step has been taken in the public interest.
Promotion of e-sports and social gaming
The ban affects only real money games. There is no ban on e-sports and social gaming like Clash of Clans, where users spend money to improve gameplay, not gamble. PM Modi said on X that work is being done towards making India a global gaming hub. For this, a National Gaming Commission will be formed, which will promote e-sports and social gaming. Recently, the Indian team participated in the e-Sports World Cup held in Riyadh, and e-sports has also been included in the 2027 Olympics.
Industry concerns
Some industry bodies like FIFS, AIGF and EGF have opposed this ban. They say that this will harm Indian companies and benefit illegal platforms. Experts believe that this law may violate the right to do business. The RMG industry claims that this may put jobs at risk.
Users' money is safe
Platforms like Dream11, PokerBaazi and MPL have assured users that their money is 100% safe and will be refunded. Users can withdraw money from their accounts, although new deposits are banned.
This move of the government is a big blow to the real money gaming industry, but can open new possibilities for e-sports and social gaming. Will this ban stop illegal gaming or will the industry have to find new ways? It will be interesting to see.
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