Online bingo is effectively banned in India under the newly enacted Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which received Presidential assent on August 22, 2025 (1). The law prohibits all forms of online money games, including bingo, whether they are based on skill, chance, or a combination of both. The legislation applies nationwide and also covers online money gaming services offered within India or operated from outside Indian territory (1).
The Bill introduces a complete prohibition on offering, aiding, abetting, or engaging in online money games, effective from October 1, 2025 (2). Operators who facilitate online bingo games face severe penalties including imprisonment of up to three years and fines up to one crore rupees. Advertising and promoting online bingo can result in imprisonment of up to two years and fines up to fifty lakh rupees (1). Financial institutions are prohibited from processing any transactions related to banned online money gaming platforms, and authorities are empowered to block access to unlawful platforms under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
"The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 marks a landmark move to shield citizens from the menace of online money games while promoting and regulating other kinds of online games. This legislation is designed to curb addiction, financial ruin and social distress caused by predatory gaming platforms."
Individual players participating in online bingo will not face penalties under the new law, as enforcement action targets operators, advertisers, promoters, and financial facilitators rather than players themselves (2). However, the Bill establishes an Online Gaming Authority to oversee the sector and ensures strict compliance through cognizable and non-bailable offenses for operators. The government estimates that approximately 45 crore people have been negatively affected by online money games with losses exceeding Rs. 20,000 crores, driving the necessity for comprehensive regulation (1). While online bingo is prohibited, the Bill promotes e-sports and safe online social games, positioning India as a leader in responsible digital policy while balancing innovation with citizen protection.
Source:
https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2025/aug/doc2025821618101.pdf
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/online-gaming-regulation-new-rules-to-take-effect-from-october-1-government-stresses-consultative-approach-with-industry/articleshow/123977212.cms
Last updated: 31-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
