India's Online Gaming Sector Needs Uniform Regulations for Safe Growth

A report by Gujarat National Law University highlights the need for uniform legal regulations, evidence-based policies, and balanced protection for users in India's online gaming industry. With over 500 million gamers, India is second only to China but lacks a centralized regulatory framework, leading to various challenges, including user safety and financial risks.

India's burgeoning online gaming sector, now home to over 500 million gamers, urgently requires a uniform legal framework to ensure user safety and harness its economic potential, according to a new report by the Gujarat National Law University (GNLU).

The report, titled 'Evaluating Blanket Bans and Mandatory Limits in Gaming,' highlights the critical absence of overarching regulations, which has left users vulnerable to various risks. The GNLU recommends India adopt evidence-based policies and a dedicated regulatory body to enforce responsible gaming practices.

Justice CK Thakker, a former Supreme Court judge, emphasized the importance of consumer protection to foster a fair and transparent gaming environment. The report also calls for financial risk assessments by operators and recognizes the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology as the nodal body for online gaming regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)