Big Blow to Online Gaming: Real-Money Cash Games Now Banned in India
India’s online gaming world has just gone through a massive shake-up. On 22nd August 2025, President Droupadi Murmu gave her final approval to the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. This law has officially banned all real-money online games across the country — whether it’s fantasy sports, poker, rummy, teen patti, or even skill-based money games.
Why This Ban?
The government says the step was necessary to protect people from addiction, fraud, money laundering, and even risks of illegal financing. Earlier, some games were considered “skill-based” and allowed in many states, but now the new law makes no distinction — if money is involved, it’s banned.
What Happens to Popular Apps?
Big names like Dream11, MPL, PokerBaazi, Zupee and others have already started shutting down or pausing their cash game operations. Only free-to-play or e-sports style games without money entry fees are allowed now.
The Penalties are Serious
Running or even advertising real-money games can land people in big trouble.
Operators may face up to 3 years in jail and a fine of ₹1 crore.
Advertising such games can bring 2 years jail and a fine of ₹50 lakh.
Repeat offenders could face 5 years jail and fines up to ₹2 crore.
The government can also block access to illegal apps and websites.
Industry Reaction
Naturally, the industry isn’t happy. Gaming bodies warn that this move could kill thousands of jobs, push players towards illegal offshore platforms, and lead to massive tax revenue losses (reports suggest over ₹20,000 crore).
Entrepreneur Anupam Mittal (Shaadi.com founder) even called it “moral policing,” comparing it to failed bans like gutka or alcohol prohibition in some states.
What’s Next for Players?
If you enjoy gaming just for fun, free games and e-sports are still allowed.
But if you used to play fantasy cricket or poker for cash, those days are over in India.
Trying to bypass the ban using foreign apps could also be risky, since the government has powers to block and punish such activity.
