E-Sports Body Urges PM Modi to Address Concerns Over Online Gaming Bill

Quick Summary

• Teh Lok Sabha passed the Online Gaming Bill,aiming to regulate the growing industry.
• Esports Players Welfare Association (EPWA) wrote to PM Modi seeking reconsideration of a proposed blanket ban on money-based gaming services under the bill.
• EPWA highlighted concerns over misclassification of skill-based games and livelihood risks for Indian gamers and esports professionals.
• The association flagged issues such as potential user migration to offshore gaming platforms lacking consumer protection and posing national security risks.
• EPWA cited examples like Moin Ejaz and Tirth Mehta, emphasizing that esports contributes considerably to livelihoods and India’s global reputation in competitive gaming.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted the government’s focus is on reducing harmful societal impacts while promoting game growth through initiatives like IICT (Indian Institute of Creative Technologies).
• EPWA supported regulation but urged differentiation between games of skill vs chance while ensuring data privacy, consumer rights, safe ecosystems, and avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The passage of the Online gaming Bill signals India’s intent to regulate a burgeoning digital sector. While regulation aims at reducing harm, EPWA’s appeal stresses critical gaps in distinguishing between skill-based esports-which foster professional livelihoods-and chance-based gambling activities. A uniform ban risks stifling not only individual incomes but also india’s aspirations to lead globally in competitive gaming arenas.

Additionally, if legitimate platforms are banned without clear guidelines or differentiation, players might resort to unregulated offshore operators-perhaps exposing them to fraud or security threats. Striking a balance between necessary oversight while nurturing India’s already substantial 450-million-player base will be key. Constructive dialog with stakeholders such as developers and gamers may pave a way forward that ensures both safety measures and growth opportunities are addressed comprehensively.

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