Introduction to India’s New Gaming Regulations
The Indian government has recently announced a new framework to regulate eSports and social gaming. This comes after the country banned online Real Money Games (RMG) just a few weeks ago. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) is now seeking public feedback on the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules, 2025.
What the New Rules Entail
The proposed law aims to promote innovation in eSports and social gaming while ensuring a safe and accountable digital gaming environment. A key part of the proposal is the creation of a new national regulator, the Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI). This authority would be responsible for overseeing the registration, operation, and compliance of online games. It would maintain a list of approved titles and operators, as well as a list of banned games linked to online money play.
Registration and Compliance
Under the draft rules, all gaming service providers would need to register their games with the OGAI and obtain a certificate of recognition valid for up to five years. The regulator would also establish a grievance redressal mechanism for users and introduce safeguards against harmful content and fraudulent practices. Companies seeking registration must define the category of their games and disclose their revenue model, including whether earnings come through advertisements, subscriptions, or one-time payments.
Powers of the New Authority
The proposed framework gives the OGAI significant powers, including the authority to reject or revoke registration for any game that involves online monetary elements. It would also be able to impose penalties, issue directives, and suspend companies found violating the Act. Violations would be classified as non-bailable offences, and individual employees of gaming companies could face personal liability for facilitating breaches.
Connection to National Sports Governance
The draft also connects recognized games to the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, ensuring that all eSports titles fall under official sporting oversight. This move is expected to further legitimize eSports in India and provide a clearer framework for its regulation.
Legal Challenges Ahead
The Supreme Court of India is set to hear several petitions challenging the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. The Union government has requested that three separate cases from different High Courts be consolidated, arguing that a single ruling would prevent conflicting interpretations and establish a uniform legal precedent nationwide.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules, 2025, marks a significant step in India’s efforts to regulate the growing eSports and social gaming industry. With the creation of the OGAI and the establishment of clear rules for registration and compliance, the government aims to strike a balance between promoting innovation and ensuring a safe gaming environment. As the Supreme Court hears the challenges to the Act, the future of gaming regulation in India hangs in the balance, with potentially far-reaching implications for the industry and its players.
