Supreme Court Challenges Online Gaming Law and Its Ban on Money Games

Supreme Court Reviews Online Gaming Law

The Supreme Court has demanded a comprehensive reply from the Centre regarding the contentious online gaming law that bans online money games. This law also prohibits banking services and advertising connected to these games. Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan emphasized the importance of addressing the main petition, with a hearing scheduled for November 26, 2025.

Background of the Online Gaming Act

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 represents India's first central legislation focused on banning real-money online gaming, which encompasses fantasy sports and e-sports played for stakes. Legal challenges to this act have emerged from various high courts, including those in Delhi, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh, raising significant questions about its constitutionality.

• Impact on Players: The law's implications have profoundly affected gamers who rely on online tournaments as a source of income.
• Petitioner's Concerns: Concerns have been raised that the Act unjustly bans skill-based games, violating constitutional rights.

During the proceedings, advocates highlighted the struggle faced by players, including a chess player stating the law jeopardized their livelihood.