Supreme Court Likely to Exempt Tournaments from New Online Gaming Law

New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has observed that regular competitions and tournaments are likely to be exempted from the ambit of the new law regulating online gaming. The court noted that such events do not fall under the definitions of betting or gambling.

A bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan made the observation while hearing a batch of petitions challenging the newly introduced online gaming regulations.

During the hearing, the bench clarified to the counsel representing an online chess player that tournaments would not face legal issues under the new law.

According to the legislation, “real money games,” as well as related banking services and advertisements, are prohibited. However, counsel appearing for online gaming platforms argued that the new law is adversely affecting their operations and forcing companies to lay off employees.

The Supreme Court has adjourned further hearing in the matter to November 26 for detailed consideration.

The Union Government, defending the law, informed the court that it was enacted in view of the social and individual harm caused by online gaming.