Several online gaming platforms, including prominent names like WinZO and Dream11, have suspended their operations in response to the Indian government’s crackdown on online money games. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, was passed by both houses of Parliament on Thursday without debate. This bill aims to curb harmful online money gaming while promoting e-sports and online social games. The legislation also restricts advertisements for online money games and prevents financial institutions from handling transactions related to these games. Moreover, it seeks to outlaw all forms of online betting and gambling, encompassing games like poker, rummy, and fantasy sports. Affected platforms include WinZO, Mobile Premier League, Zupee, and PokerBaazi (operated by Nazara Tech’s associate firm, Moonshine Technologies). RummyCulture (Gameskraft Technologies), Dream11, A23 Rummy and A23 Poker (Head Digital Works), and Probo have also ceased their online money game operations. The new regulations are expected to significantly impact India’s $3.8 billion gaming sector, leading to potential shifts in the market.
