India: Council of States adopted Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill including prohibition of services (Bill No. 110 of 2025)

On 21 August 2025, the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, was passed by the Council of States of the Indian Parliament. The Bill imposes a complete ban on online money games involving stakes or monetary deposits. The prohibition extends to offering, facilitating, advertising and financial transactions linked to such games. Banks and payment providers are barred from processing related transactions. The Bill also includes provisions for violations, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to INR 2 crore for repeat offences. Offences are designated as cognisable and non-bailable.