NEW DELHI — In a session marked by loud protests and persistent sloganeering, bith Hoises of the PArliament adjourned sine die on Thursday after the passage of ‘The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025’ introduced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The Bill, which had already cleared the Lok Sabha, was passed in Rajya Sabha by voice vote despite a noisy standoff over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bihar. The legislation seeks to establish a national framework for regulating the online gaming sector, including e-sports, educational games, and social gaming. It also imposes a strict ban on online money games involving betting or gambling, especially those operating across state borders or from foreign jurisdictions.
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 was passed without a debate as Opposition members raised slogans demanding a discussion on the special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar by the Election Commission.
The Bill proposes the creation of a central authority to oversee policy coordination, strategic development, and regulatory enforcement in the sector.
Speaking in support of the Bill, Minister Vaishnaw emphasised the government’s decision to prioritise the welfare of the middle class and youth over potential revenue gains.
“There are social evils in every era,” he said, “but under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, we have chosen to act decisively.”
He cited alarming figures, noting that nearly 45 crore people are affected by online money gaming, with estimated financial losses exceeding Rs 30,000 crore.
Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to speak but was denied by the Deputy Chairman. Other members, including John Brittas and Dr R. Sivadasan, tried to raise amendments but were denied as they raised the issue of SIR; their voice drowned out by the commotion.
The World Health Organisation has classified online money gaming addiction as a psychological disorder, and the minister warned that the issue has escalated into a public health crisis, with families losing breadwinners and key members to addiction.
Once the legislation is passed by both Houses of Parliament, offering or facilitating online money gaming will be punishable by imprisonment of up to 3 years and/or a fine of up to ₹1 crore.
The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have been adjourned sine die.
The House functioned for only 41 hours and 15 minutes, yielding a disappointing productivity rate of just 38.88 per cent — an outcome he described as a matter warranting serious introspection.
The Deputy Chairman highlighted that members had the opportunity to raise 255 starred questions, submit 285 Zero Hour notices, and make 285 Special Mentions. However, only 14 questions were actually answered, with just seven Zero Hour submissions and 61 Special Mentions taken up during proceedings. — With inputs from IANS
