Regulation, not bans, can protect online gamers

The article argues that the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025, which aimed to protect vulnerable populations from the adverse impacts of online games involving money, has been counterproductive. Instead of curbing the issue, the ban implemented by the Act has led to a significant rise in the use of illegal offshore betting and gambling platforms. These platforms not only circumvent domestic laws but also pose risks of money laundering and terror financing. The author advocates for a strong regulatory framework with accountability and consumer safeguards, similar to approaches in the UAE and Sri Lanka, rather than outright bans, to effectively address the challenges and generate tax revenue.