Gaming

Tamil Nadu Enforces Stricter Regulations on Online Real-Money Gaming

The image features Md. Nasimuddin, Chairperson of TNOGA, speaking into a microphone while seated on a stage. He is wearing a brown vest over a white shirt and has a conference lanyard around his neck. The background features multiple logos of the Government of Tamil Nadu, with the emblem and the phrase "Truth Alone Triumphs." A white and green text box at the bottom displays his name and title: "Md. Nasimuddin, Chairperson, TNOGA."
By
ES
3 min read

In a decisive move to address concerns over online gaming addiction and financial risks, the Tamil Nadu government has enacted the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (Real Money Games) Regulations, 2025. These regulations, effective immediately, introduce comprehensive measures to regulate online real-money gaming within the state.

Key Provisions of the New Regulations

  • Prohibition for Minors: Individuals under 18 are strictly barred from participating in online real-money games.
  • Mandatory KYC and Aadhaar Verification: All players must undergo Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures during account creation, including Aadhaar-based authentication with a one-time password sent to the linked mobile number.
  • Restricted Gaming Hours: Access to gaming platforms is prohibited between midnight and 5 AM, aiming to curb excessive gaming habits.
  • Continuous Play Warnings: Platforms are required to display pop-up warnings after one hour of continuous gameplay, with subsequent alerts every 30 minutes, informing players of their total playtime.
  • Spending Limits: Players can set daily, weekly, and monthly monetary limits. Upon making a deposit, a pop-up message must display the set limit and the amount spent so far.
  • Addiction Warning Labels: Gaming platforms must prominently display a cautionary message on login pages stating, "ONLINE GAMING IS ADDICTIVE IN NATURE."

Background and Rationale

The introduction of these regulations follows a series of legislative efforts by Tamil Nadu to control online gambling and gaming. The Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Act, 2022, sought to ban games like rummy and poker by classifying them as games of chance. However, the Madras High Court invalidated key provisions of this law on constitutional grounds, particularly concerning the distinction between games of skill and chance. An appeal is currently pending before the Supreme Court of India.

These regulatory measures are also a response to alarming reports linking online gambling to at least 17 suicides in the state in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for protective interventions.

Enforcement Challenges

While the regulations establish a robust framework, several enforcement challenges persist:

  • Circumvention via Technology: Players might use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or adjust device settings to bypass restrictions, complicating enforcement efforts.
  • Cross-Jurisdictional Access: Residents may access platforms operating legally in other states, raising questions about the efficacy of state-specific regulations.
  • Operator Compliance: Ensuring uniform implementation of these regulations across diverse platforms requires continuous monitoring and cooperation from gaming operators.

Our Opinion on the News

Tamil Nadu's proactive stance reflects a growing recognition of the potential harms associated with unregulated online real-money gaming. By implementing stringent measures, the state aims to protect vulnerable populations, especially minors, from addiction and financial exploitation. However, the success of these regulations hinges on effective enforcement and the ability to adapt to technological workarounds. A collaborative approach involving stakeholders across the gaming industry, technology sectors, and regulatory bodies is essential to create a safe and responsible gaming environment.