The recently tabled Online Gaming Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha has sent shockwaves across India’s gaming community, with one big question dominating conversations – Will fantasy sports platforms like Dream11 be banned?
The Core of the Bill
According to the Bill, all forms of online money gaming – whether skill-based or chance-based will be prohibited. Since Dream11 involves players creating virtual cricket, football, or kabaddi teams with monetary stakes and potential cash rewards, it falls under the definition of “online money games.”
The Bill, however, makes a clear distinction between real-money gaming and esports/social games, the latter being promoted by the government. Unfortunately for Dream11, its core model involves monetary wagers, making it subject to the proposed ban.
Where Does Dream11 Stand?
Dream11 operates as a fantasy sports platform where players build virtual teams and win money based on real-life performances. While the company argues that fantasy sports are skill-based, the Bill does not differentiate once monetary stakes are involved.
Possible Impact
If classified as a real-money game, Dream11 could face a complete ban.
Advertising partnerships with IPL teams, cricketers, and influencers may also be restricted.
Financial transactions for gameplay may be blocked by banks and UPI gateways.
What Is Online Gaming Bill 2025?
On August 20th, 2025, the Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw tabled the Online Gaming Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, even as the Opposition continued its protests. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, was passed by voice vote. Outlining the objectives of the bill, the Union Minister said that the government aims to promote online social games and esports.
The bill prohibits all forms of online money gaming, regardless of whether it is based on skill, chance, or a combination of both. However, esports and social games are allowed with subscription-based access. The legislation, introduced earlier in the day, was cleared after the Cabinet approved it.
The Online Gaming Bill 2025 prohibits online games that involve monetary stakes, due to concerns such as financial losses, addiction, etc. It imposes a blanket ban on all forms of online betting and gambling. This includes: Fantasy sports, Card games such as poker and rummy, Online lotteries.
Additionally, it also restricts advertisements promoting such games. Banks and financial institutions are barred from processing or facilitating transactions related to these games.
Violators may face imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to Rs 1 crore, once the bill is passed in both the Houses of Parliament.
Also Read: Lok Sabha Passes Online Gaming Bill 2025 – What’s Allowed And What’s Banned?
