Karnataka HC Seeks Centre’s Response on Online Gaming Bill Challenge

Rapid Summary

• The Karnataka High Court adjourned the hearing on a petition challenging the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025 to September 8, 2025.
• PROG Act bans all online Real Money Games (RMGs), including games of skill such as rummy and poker.
• The petitioner, Head Digital Works Pvt. Ltd., challenges the Constitutional validity of certain sections that criminalize violations under this law as cognizable and non-bailable offenses.
• Justice B.M. Shyam Prasad directed the Central government to file objections by September 8 regarding staying implementation of PROG Act provisions against games of skill.
• Senior Advocate Aryama Sundaram argued that games based on skill have long been recognized as legitimate business under Article 19(1)(g) by Supreme court precedents but said interim relief would not be sought if the government refrains from notifying the Act during litigation.
• Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated Parliament’s legislative competency to regulate online gaming will be evaluated for the first time by judicial review in this case.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The karnataka High Court’s decision to examine legislative competency surrounding regulation of online gaming via laws such as PROG Act marks an crucial juncture for legal jurisprudence in India. at its crux is a delicate balance: safeguarding consumer interests while respecting established judgments affirming lawful business rights for games based purely on skills like rummy and poker.The implications are significant-not only for digital enterprises operating in india’s booming online gaming sector but also other industries where constitutional protections regarding freedom to conduct trade might clash with regulatory frameworks aimed at broader public welfare. This ongoing litigation raises pertinent questions about regulating emerging technologies while maintaining fundamental liberties enshrined in Article 19(1)(g).

Read More: the Hindu