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A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court has brought the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and several high-profile celebrities under scrutiny for allegedly promoting illegal online gambling platforms. The PIL will be heard by division bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel on April 30.

Advocate Davinder Singh has sought immediate judicial intervention to curb what he describes as the rampant and unchecked promotion of illegal betting apps such as Fairplay, 1xBet, Parimatch, Betway, Stake, Lotus365, and SkyExchange.

The petition (a copy of which is with Storyboard18) states that ASCI, the industry self-regulatory body, is failing to act against misleading advertisements. The petitioner argues that ASCI has not fulfilled its mandate, by allowing celebrity endorsements that glamorize and legitimize these illegal platforms.

The petition states, "ASCI has failed to monitor and take timely action against misleading advertisements promoting gambling in violation of its Code and the Consumer Protection Act".

Citing Sections 21 and 89 of the Act, the PIL demands prosecution and penal action against endorsers, including actors Ranbir Kapoor, Kiara Advani, Esha Gupta, Urvashi Rautela, Jacqueline Fernandez, and singers like Badshah and Karan Aujla. These endorsements, the petition claims, mislead consumers, particularly vulnerable youth, by portraying gambling as safe and rewarding.

“The endorsements create a false legitimacy and have devastating consequences for impressionable audiences,” the petition states. Several tragic incidents have been highlighted in the plea, including student suicides attributed to betting addiction and financial losses incurred on these platforms.

The petitioner has urged the court to direct ASCI to initiate legal proceedings against the celebrity endorsers and to enforce its code of advertising more stringently. The petition also calls on the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to block access to these websites and coordinate with enforcement agencies to investigate money laundering, data privacy breaches, and the misuse of Aadhaar and mobile data.

Petition states, "Whether the inaction or regulatory failure of the ASCI in monitoring and penalizing such misleading advertisements violates its statutory duty under the consumer Consumer Protection framework and its self-regulatory code?" 

The PIL has named ASCI as a respondent alongside the governments of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh; the Ministry of Electronics and IT; the Enforcement Directorate (ED); and the celebrities in question.

Singh is pushing for the immediate creation of comprehensive regulations to govern advertising and operations of online betting platforms. He further pleads timely enforcement of Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, which allows the government to block public access to illegal online content, and to take decisive action against violators. The petition stresses the public health, economic, and legal risks these platforms pose, and argues for a holistic regulatory framework.

Advocate Davinder Singh, petitioner told Storyboard18, "It is unfortunate that celebrities openly promote betting and gambling platforms without considering its ill effects on the society. ASCI on the other hand is failing drastically to fulfil its duty to report such misleading advertisements." 

Between April and August 2024, ASCI flagged over 700 advertisements from illegal betting and gambling companies and forwarded them to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/exclusive-asci-to-report-snoop-dogg-backed-gambling-platform-roobet-to-mib-57751.htm">Read More: ASCI to report Snoop Dogg backed gambling platform ‘Roobet’ to MIB</a>

Concerns over surrogate advertising have also been raised. In a letter to MIB Secretary Sanjay Jaju, stakeholders in the Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry highlighted how offshore betting operators such as Melbet, Dafabet, Vegas11, Fun88, and 1xBet are disguising ads under similar-sounding brands like Melbat, Dafanews, Vegas11 Sports News, Fun88 News, and Batery.AI.

In a separate but related development, another PIL was recently filed in the Supreme Court by evangelist K.A. Paul, citing the damaging influence of online betting apps on the country’s youth. That petition calls for an immediate ban on such apps and seeks legal action against celebrities—including popular cricketers and actors from Bollywood and South India—who promote these platforms and allegedly mislead their fans by encouraging harmful behavior.

In 2023, MIB issued an advisory to state chief secretaries to crack down on outdoor advertising by gambling and betting companies. Apurva Chandra, Secretary of the MIB, reiterated previous advisories that prohibit such promotions in traditional media and pointed out a shift toward outdoor channels—hoardings, posters, banners, and even auto-rickshaw branding—as a new way these companies are promoting their services. The letter urged local authorities to take immediate and appropriate action to curb these outdoor ads.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/asci-finds-healthcare-and-illegal-betting-top-violative-sector-in-fy24-32344.htm">Read More: ASCI finds healthcare and illegal betting top violative sector in FY24</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/asci-signs-mou-with-the-online-gaming-federations-to-protect-consumers-against-offshore-betting-ads-57043.htm">Read More: ASCI signs MoU with the online gaming federations to protect consumers against offshore betting ads</a>

Exclusive: PIL filed against illegal betting platforms; ASCI, celebs face scrutiny

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a public advisory warning investors against engaging with Opinion Trading Platforms. These platforms, according to SEBI, allow users to enter into arrangements where payouts are determined by the outcome of a yes/no proposition—essentially betting on the occurrence or non-occurrence of future events.

SEBI emphasized that such platforms often mimic legitimate investment avenues by using financial market terminology like "profits," "stop loss," and "trading," which may mislead users into believing they are participating in regulated securities markets.

In its official statement, SEBI clarified that these platforms generally do not fall under its regulatory purview as the underlying activity does not involve trading in securities. Consequently, no investor protection mechanisms applicable to securities markets would cover transactions made on these platforms.

The regulator further noted that since these platforms are neither recognized stock exchanges nor registered with SEBI, any trading of securities—if it occurs on these platforms—would be considered illegal. In such cases, both the platforms and their participants may face regulatory action.

SEBI has advised recognized stock exchanges to monitor and take appropriate action against such violations and reiterated that trades executed on unrecognized platforms offer no legal safeguards to investors.

SEBI via its advisory aims to raise public awareness about the risks associated with these platforms and to reinforce SEBI’s role and jurisdiction in maintaining the integrity of India's financial markets.

It should be noted that the Haryana government's Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025, passed during the budget session in the state's Vidhan Sabha, has cast doubts on the operations of opinion trading platforms in India. These platforms are also currently under scrutiny in the Gujarat High Court. Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) formally urged the Indian government to ban opinion trading apps and websites referring it as 'Digital Satta'.

Previously, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) formally urged the Indian government to ban opinion trading apps and websites. In a letter addressed to Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, and Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, CAIT emphasized the serious risks posed by these platforms, describing them as a form of "digital satta" (online gambling).

CAIT also raised grave concerns about the potential impact of these platforms on India's democratic processes. The letter warned that prediction-based opinion trading platforms allow users to bet on election outcomes, thereby posing a threat to electoral democracy. Given the widespread reach of these platforms, CAIT cautioned that they could influence public opinion and undermine the integrity of democratic institutions.

Recently, the New Indian Consumer Initiative (NICI) PEN Media Literacy in its latest workshop has decided to send a joint representation letter to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the Ministry of Finance, SEBI, and ASCI, urging a ban on opinion trading platforms in India.

Storyboard18 had earlier reported about the unchecked rise of opinion trading games on real-money gaming platforms, which has drawn the attention of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

Globally, in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, opinion trading apps and websites are classified as wagering platforms and are regulated. However, India still lacks specific legislation to govern these activities.

Breaking: SEBI flags 'illegal' opinion trading platforms, warns public to stay away

One 97 Communications Limited, the parent company of First Games Technology Private Limited has received a show cause notice (SCN) from the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI), Delhi Zonal Unit. The notice pertains to an ongoing tax matter in the online gaming industry and proposes a demand of ₹5,712 crore in unpaid Goods and Services Tax (GST), along with applicable interest and penalties.

The notice, received by First Games on April 28, 2025, argues that GST should be levied at 28% on the total entry amount collected by the platform, rather than the 18% paid on platform fees — a stance that has become a contentious issue across the online real money gaming sector. The liability outlined in the notice covers the period from January 2018 to March 2023.

Paytm clarified that this issue is not unique to First Games, noting that the GST department has sent similar notices to several gaming companies in the past. The matter is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, which has granted interim relief by staying further proceedings.

In response, First Games plans to file a writ petition to challenge the SCN on legal grounds, particularly opposing the retrospective application of a GST amendment effective from October 1, 2023. The petition will also question the interpretation of regulations before this amendment, seeking interim relief consistent with that granted to other companies in the industry.

Paytm has emphasized that the SCN has no operational or financial impact on One 97 Communications Limited itself. As per accounting standards, First Games is treated as a joint venture (JV), and its financials are not consolidated into Paytm’s statements. The company noted that its investment in First Games is already valued at nil as of March 31, 2024, with an exposure limited to ₹225 crore in shareholder loans as of December 31, 2024.

The Supreme Court of India will hear the biggest taxation matter of online gaming industry from May 5-9. The case, with an estimated financial impact of ₹2.5 lakh crore, is one of the biggest tax battles in India’s history. 

Gaming companies are challenging the government’s interpretation of Rule 31A of the CGST Rules, which states that GST at 28% should be levied on the face value of each bet. The industry argues that this rule applies only to gambling and betting, not to games of skill like rummy, poker, or fantasy sports.

Breaking: Paytm's First Games receives ₹5,712 crore GST show cause notice

The Haryana government's Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025, passed during the budget session in the state's Vidhan Sabha, has cast doubts on the operations of opinion trading platforms in India. These platforms are also currently under scrutiny in the Gujarat High Court. Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) formally urged the Indian government to ban opinion trading apps and websites referring it as 'Digital Satta'. 

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who also holds the Home portfolio, introduced the Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025, which aims to prevent and penalize individuals involved in public gambling, operating common gambling houses, betting on sports or elections, and engaging in match-fixing or spot-fixing in sports.

According to the provisions of the Act, “whoever indulges in match-fixing or spot-fixing in sports shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not less than three years and up to five years, and shall also be liable to a fine of not less than Rs 5 lakh.” A subsequent offense could result in imprisonment for up to seven years.

The Act defines a "bet" as “any agreement, whether oral, written, or otherwise, between two or more parties regarding the occurrence or non-occurrence of an event—past, present, or future—whose outcome is unknown to any or all of the parties at the time of the agreement, where the party making an incorrect prediction must pay or forfeit a stipulated consideration to the other party or parties involved, either monetary or non-monetary."

Interestingly, this definition of "bet" closely mirrors the format used by many opinion and sports trading platforms operating in India. However, under Section 1(3) of the Act, “It shall come into force on such date as the State Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette.” It remains unclear when the state government will enforce the Act, which could effectively ban opinion trading platforms in Haryana.

Congress MLA Aditya Surjewala criticized the Act, calling it “deeply flawed” and arguing that it lacks clarity on the definition of betting. He also pointed out that gaming instruments such as boards, cards, and dice are not adequately defined, and demanded that the Act be referred to a Select Committee for further review, citing similar laws enacted in other states.

Experts argue that the lack of clear regulations for opinion-based gaming creates a gray area that both players and platforms continue to exploit. While opinion-based games appeal to a wide audience and generate substantial revenue, their similarity to wagering and gambling poses challenges for the broader real-money gaming (RMG) industry. It is critical for the government, especially the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), to establish comprehensive guidelines to address these concerns.

Additionally, the Supreme Court of India recently reinstated a petitioner’s case seeking a ban on opinion trading apps. The Supreme Court bench strongly criticized the Gujarat High Court for dismissing the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) merely because a similar case was pending in the Bombay High Court, without adequately considering the merits of the matter.

In Sumit Kapurbhai Prajapati v. Union of India & Others, a special leave petition challenging the Gujarat High Court’s refusal to hear the PIL was taken up by a Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan. The Court ultimately granted leave and reinstated the petitioner’s case in the Gujarat High Court, preserving all rights and contentions of the parties involved.

Previously, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) formally urged the Indian government to ban opinion trading apps and websites. In a letter addressed to Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, and Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, CAIT emphasized the serious risks posed by these platforms, describing them as a form of "digital satta" (online gambling).

CAIT also raised grave concerns about the potential impact of these platforms on India's democratic processes. The letter warned that prediction-based opinion trading platforms allow users to bet on election outcomes, thereby posing a threat to electoral democracy. Given the widespread reach of these platforms, CAIT cautioned that they could influence public opinion and undermine the integrity of democratic institutions.

Digital Satta: Haryana govt’s new Gambling Act casts shadow over Opinion Trading platforms

As Karnataka prepares to unveil a comprehensive regulatory framework for the online real money gaming (RMG) industry by the end of this year, sources familiar with the matter have confirmed that the state government is planning to introduce a whitelisting mechanism for legitimate operators. 

In a significant move, the state also intends to establish a clear legal distinction between skill-based gaming and gambling. However, it remains uncertain what measures will be taken against offshore betting platforms, whose operations have exponentially grown in the past year.

The upcoming framework will also include provisions for age-gating, grievance redressal mechanisms, and player support systems—part of a broader "consumer-first" strategy aimed at curbing the influence of illegal betting and gambling services.

According to Digital India Foundation report, four betting platforms—Parimatch, Stake, 1xBet, and Battery Bet—received 1.6 billion visits in just three months, between October and December 2024. Social media platforms like Facebook, Meta, and Telegram drove 42.8 million visits to these four platforms during the same period. While deposits in illegal betting and gambling are exceeding 100 billion dollars per year and are growing at an annual rate of 30%.

On April 8, key representatives from the RMG sector—including officials from the All India Gaming Federation, the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports, and the E-Gaming Federation—met with Karnataka’s Home Minister S. Parameshwara and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge to discuss the impending regulations.

“Karnataka is taking a progressive approach toward regulating the RMG industry,” said one industry representative. “Whitelisting legitimate companies and cracking down on illegal operators will definitely support sector growth. If implemented it will make Karnataka, the first state to implement whitelisting of RMG companies in this complex regulatory landscape.”

Another stakeholder, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that a draft of the new framework is expected within the next couple of months, followed by a stakeholder consultation phase. “The Karnataka government is targeting an end-of-year rollout,” the person said.

If executed effectively, Karnataka’s move could set a precedent for other states, paving the way for a more structured and investment-friendly gaming industry across India. With regulatory clarity on the horizon, industry players are hopeful that a balanced framework will foster innovation while safeguarding users and curbing illegal operations.

This effort marks a shift from the state's previous stance. In 2021, Karnataka introduced the Karnataka Police (Amendment) Bill, which sought to ban all forms of online gambling—excluding lotteries and horse racing—by removing the distinction between games of skill and games of chance. The law inadvertently included skill-based gaming startups under its purview.

However, the Karnataka High Court struck down most provisions of the bill in February 2022, deeming them unconstitutional. The state appealed to the Supreme Court, which issued notices to various gaming companies and industry bodies. The case remains pending.

"There is nothing to regulate them so far. They have agreed to the introduction of a licence system and a regulation as per law. Once the draft is submitted, we will bring in a new law," Home Minister Parameshwara said, adding that a committee is currently drafting the policy.

Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology Priyank Kharge had last month said that the government is mulling over bringing the entire online gaming, real money gaming under a legal parameter.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra is also working on its own regulatory framework for online gaming, signalling a broader trend toward structured oversight in India’s RMG space. Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home Affairs, Yogesh Kadam, recently told the state’s Legislative Council that the government is developing tougher laws to combat cybercrime and financial fraud linked to online platforms. “A uniform policy and stricter legal measures are on the way,” Kadam noted.

Adding to the anticipation, stakeholders across the country are now closely watching the Supreme Court's hearing on the ₹2.5 lakh crore GST case, scheduled for May 5–9. The outcome is expected to have far-reaching implications for the future of India’s online gaming industry.

EXCLUSIVE: Karnataka govt to introduce whitelist for Real Money Gaming operators

The Delhi High Court on Monday modified an arbitral order in an ongoing legal battle between online real money gaming platform WinZO Games and creative agency Creativeland Advertising, Justice Jyoti Singh ordered WinZO to provide a ₹30 lakh bank guarantee or deposit the same amount directly with the Arbitral Tribunal, to be held in a fixed deposit within three weeks.

The case stems from a dispute where Creativeland Advertising accused WinZO of misusing its intellectual property and breaching confidentiality obligations. The dispute is regarding the use of the tagline “Jeeto Har DinZo”, which Creativeland claims was derived from its proprietary creative material.

The order copy dated April 15 states, "Accordingly, with the consent of the parties, impugned order dated 28.02.2025 is modified to the extent that Appellant (WinZO) shall furnish a bank guarantee in the sum of Rs 30,00,000/- in favour of the Respondent (Creativeland Advertising) within a period of three weeks from today. In the alternative, it is open to the Appellant to deposit a sum of Rs 30,00,000/- before the Arbitral Tribunal, which shall be invested in an interest-bearing Fixed Deposit. The needful shall be done within three weeks."

The central issue revolved around the tagline “Jeeto Har DinZo,” which Creativeland Advertising claims to have developed exclusively for WinZO Games during preliminary campaign discussions.

According to the Delhi High Court order copy dated March 18, WinZO Games engaged Creativeland Advertising in October 2024 for a brand campaign. A Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) was executed on November 8, 2024. Creativeland Advertising presented campaign concepts, including the tagline, through multiple pitch decks between December 2024 and January 2025. In January 2025, WinZO Games expressed interest in the tagline and sought guidance on its positioning.

Creativeland Advertising claimed that in February 2025, WinZO Games unexpectedly terminated discussions, opting to work with a different creative team and offering Rs. 10 lakhs as compensation for the tagline. Creativeland Advertising filed for arbitration, seeking an injunction to restrain WinZO Games from using the tagline without authorization.

Creativeland Asia IP dispute, Delhi HC orders WinZO to deposit ₹30 lakh in three weeks

With online real money gaming industry facing strong headwinds due to uncertain regulations and policies, Zupee has steered towards its first-ever annual profit—proving that in the rush to scale, sustainability might just be the smartest bet. Shifting state-level bans, ongoing legal debates around what constitutes a “game of skill,” and lack of a central governing framework have created an unpredictable environment for operators and investors alike.

For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, Zupee posted ₹1,123 crore in net revenue and ₹146 crore in net profit, marking its first-ever year of profitability since its inception. In a sector where many companies are still in the red, chasing aggressive growth and user acquisition at the cost of profitability, Zupee’s performance serves as a beacon of sustainable success. In a business where speed often trumps strategy, Zupee is proving that in the rush to scale, sustainability might just be the smartest bet.

During FY24, Zupee also saw a 60% increase in its registered user base, a clear indication that its approach is resonating with the market. To fuel this growth, Zupee allocated ₹350 crore towards marketing and advertising, with a strong emphasis on digital platforms. However, the company also invested in traditional channels like TV and high-visibility events, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), blending both new-age and tried-and-true strategies. As a result, the company’s total expenses grew by 11.7% to ₹1,019 crore, up from ₹911.9 crore in FY23. A major chunk of this expenditure was directed toward marketing and user incentives, with ₹806 crore being spent in FY24 to drive the business forward.

In a fast-growing gaming ecosystem where many companies burn through massive amounts of cash in a relentless race to acquire users, Dilsher Malhi, Founder and CEO of Zupee, has chosen a different approach—one grounded in balance, profitability, and measured growth.

Malhi is quick to identify what truly powers sustainable growth. “There are four or five major channels through which you can acquire users,” he begins, breaking down the key drivers of Zupee’s user growth strategy with clarity that comes from lived experience.

First on Malhi’s list is word-of-mouth. “It’s the biggest and the most profitable channel,” he asserts. “Every user you acquire ends up recruiting even half a user. That kind of organic loop is gold for any company.” Zupee’s ability to create an organic growth loop among users has been instrumental in its scaling process, without needing to over-rely on expensive paid channels.

Alongside this organic growth driver is performance marketing, which directly communicates the functional benefits of the platform, and brand marketing, which focuses on embedding a larger, lasting message in consumers’ minds. Malhi notes that referrals, which incentivize the word-of-mouth loop, are a crucial part of the puzzle. By focusing on a multi-pronged strategy, Zupee avoids over-dependence on any single marketing channel, giving it an edge over competitors that might lean heavily on paid acquisition.

“Zupee has never been over-reliant on just one lever,” Malhi explains. “It’s directly tied to profitability. If your growth is overly dependent on paid channels, it’s going to be very hard to crack profitability.” This philosophy of balance has been central to Zupee’s success, allowing the company to scale while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

But it’s not just growth strategy where Malhi sees the need for thoughtful structure. He’s also vocal about regulatory clarity in the online gaming space—particularly with regard to skill-based games like Zupee’s flagship Ludo offering. Unlike other games such as Rummy and Poker, where there have been established legal rulings about whether they are games of skill or chance, Ludo still lacks clear legal definitions in the context of playing for stakes.

“There are millions of games. The courts can’t be the ones classifying each of them,” Malhi points out. “Even if you’re a rummy platform with a Supreme Court judgment backing you, you're still struggling with retrospective tax issues.” Malhi’s concern isn’t limited to simply defining games of skill versus chance—it extends to a broader need for clearer guidelines that can govern the entire sector.

“Skill versus chance is only one part of the puzzle,” he explains. “We need advertising guidelines, responsible gaming standards, and frameworks under PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act)—everything needs to come together. Only then can real value be unlocked in this sector.” In his view, the lack of a central authority or cohesive regulatory framework is creating an environment of uncertainty and debate that benefits no one.

“Clarity about Opinion trading won’t solve anything,” he adds. “Today I’ll say this is a skill-based game, tomorrow someone else says poker isn’t skill-based. There’s no end to that.”

The absence of a unified regulatory approach is perhaps one of the greatest challenges facing the Indian gaming sector. While companies like Zupee have proven that it’s possible to scale and turn a profit despite these challenges, the industry as a whole could benefit from clear, centralized regulations that provide long-term stability. For Malhi, the future of the sector depends on a collaborative effort to build a robust framework that balances innovation with responsibility.

RMG industry needs right regulatory framework, including under PMLA: Dilsher Malhi, CEO of Zupee

In a courtroom exchange that blended wit with warning, the Tamil Nadu Advocate General quipped, “If you play Rummy, I will become Mummy,” capturing the state’s stern stance on real money gaming (RMG) during an ongoing legal battle in the Madras High Court. The remark, though light-hearted, underscores the deeper paternalistic approach the state has taken toward online gaming regulation.

On Monday, the Madras High Court Bench comprising Justices S.M. Subramaniam and K. Rajasekhar concluded oral hearings in a significant case involving online rummy and other real money games. The matter concerns the constitutionality of Tamil Nadu’s recent gaming law, which the petitioners argue places arbitrary and excessive restrictions on their operations.

Senior counsel Sajan Poovayya, appearing on behalf of online rummy platforms, presented rejoinder arguments challenging the state’s regulatory push. He emphasized that online rummy for stakes has already received constitutional protection under Article 19(1)(g) in two prior judgments by the Madras High Court. According to him, the burden now lies with the state to justify how a complete five-hour shutdown of business—from midnight to 5 AM—qualifies as the least intrusive method of regulation.

Poovayya also pointed out that while the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2023 have been notified, the corresponding Self-Regulatory Bodies (SRBs) are yet to be formally recognized by the Centre. He stressed that the authority to regulate online skill-based games lies with the Union government—not the states—under the constitutional framework.

The dispute lies a deeper constitutional question: who holds the power to regulate online gaming? Senior Counsel C Aryama Sundaram, representing the petitioners in earlier hearings, asserted that the Tamil Nadu government lacks jurisdiction to legislate in this domain. Citing Entry 31 of List I in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, Sundaram argued that matters relating to digital and online communication fall exclusively under the purview of the central government.

The gaming companies are contesting the Tamil Nadu law on three major grounds:

Curfew on Online Gaming: The law prohibits all online gaming activity from 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM. Petitioners labeled this blanket ban as arbitrary, contending that it unjustifiably restricts personal freedom without a proportional basis.

Aadhaar-Based Verification: Mandatory Aadhaar authentication for users has also been challenged as legally untenable. Petitioners argued that such requirements are not only technologically burdensome but also run afoul of existing provisions in the Aadhaar Act, 2016, which limit the scope of such data usage.

Jurisdictional Overreach: The core of the legal argument rests on the claim that only the Centre, through its IT Rules of 2021, can regulate online games of skill, thereby making Tamil Nadu’s regulatory actions unconstitutional.

With oral arguments now complete, the Madras High Court has directed all parties to submit their final written arguments by April 28, 2025. The matter is scheduled for hearing on the same day, primarily to take on record these written submissions.

'If you play Rummy, I’ll become Mummy': Tamil Nadu’s RMG case reaches final stage

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's (MIB) latest initiative to develop a 240-acre global creative hub is earning widespread praise from leaders in the gaming and esports sectors. Industry stakeholders are calling it a significant leap forward for the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) ecosystem.

In collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra, the MIB recently announced plans to establish this ambitious creative center in Malad, Mumbai. This development follows the earlier announcement of the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) at Dadasaheb Phalke Film City in Goregaon, intended to nurture talent in India’s fast-growing AVGC-XR space.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/maharashtra-mib-to-sign-mou-for-240-acre-creative-hub-development-in-mumbai-62150.htm">Read More: Maharashtra, MIB to sign MoU for 240 acre creative hub development in Mumbai</a>

The announcement was made during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Maharashtra Government, Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Ltd. (MFSCDCL), and IICT. The MoU exchange took place in the presence of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Boosting AVGC-XR industry

Roby John, CEO and Founder of SuperGaming, welcomed the move, calling it “a bold step” that signals India’s ambition to become a global powerhouse in storytelling and content creation.

“When you imagine a place where studios, creators, startups, and talent from around the world can come together to innovate and build, IICT could be that place,” John said. “With support like the $1 billion Creator Fund for skill development, tech upgrades, and global market access, and with global initiatives like WAVES involving 100+ countries, we’re not just creating a space—we’re building an ecosystem. One that supports international collaboration and helps position India as a top-tier destination for creators and innovators.”

Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO of Skyesports, echoed this optimism. “If executed well with top-tier infrastructure and integrated into Mumbai’s broader ecosystem, this hub has the potential to attract not only talent but studios and investors globally,” Nandy said. “A dedicated esports zone could also make regular tournaments viable—something that’s currently hampered by a lack of large, cost-effective venues in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.”

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/breaking-ashwini-vaishnaw-announces-1-billion-fund-to-boost-creators-economy-59165.htm">Read More: Ashwini Vaishnaw announces $1 billion fund to boost creators' economy</a>

Nandy also emphasized the career opportunities gaming presents for Indian youth. “Gaming isn’t just about playing anymore—it’s about creating, building, and reaching global audiences. Clear entry points into these career paths can unlock the next generation of game developers and esports professionals.”

Will attract FDI

Aniket Chauhan, gaming content creator and influencer, hailed the initiative as a strategic step toward global leadership. “The MIB’s creative hub plan and the $1 billion Creator Fund mark a huge step forward. These moves not only provide opportunities for the ecosystem but also align with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat,” he said.

Harnit Khatri, a former esports pro turned influencer, added that the initiative would help transform public perception about gaming as a viable career. “These progressive steps will attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and shift how Indians view gaming and esports. It’s not just play—it’s a profession with real potential.”

Calls for Clear Policies

Despite the excitement, stakeholders emphasized the need for regulatory clarity and policy support.

“We’ve made significant progress as an industry, but there’s still work to be done to help creators and developers thrive,” said Roby John. “Stakeholders have been pushing for policy clarity—especially distinguishing entertainment games from real-money games, offering tax breaks for original Indian IPs, and more backing for indie studios.”

He also stressed the importance of spreading opportunities beyond metro cities. “Funding and training initiatives need to reach the grassroots. At SuperGaming, we’re striving to do this through games like Indus, but broader support is needed to truly tap into India’s diverse creative talent.”

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/exclusive-indias-gaming-industry-gets-clarity-rmg-sector-to-be-regulated-by-meity-47355.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: India’s gaming industry gets clarity, RMG sector to be regulated by MeitY</a>

Shiva Nandy pointed out that with esports now included in the Olympic Esports Series and the Asian Games, the timing is ideal to scale India’s grassroots esports infrastructure.

“States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are already taking the lead,” he said. “But to truly unlock our potential, we need to retrofit Centers of Excellence with gaming arenas, broadcast studios, and AR/VR setups. A National Esports Infrastructure Pool—complete with low-latency connectivity for seamless hybrid tournaments—could be a game-changer for regional development.”

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/maharashtra-mib-to-sign-mous-for-240-acre-creative-hub-development-62150.htm">Read More: Maharashtra, MIB to sign MoU for 240 acre creative hub development in Mumbai</a>

Stakeholders applaud MIB’s bold push to accelerate AVGC-XR sector growth

In what’s shaping up to be one of the expensive courtroom battles in India’s corporate history, the country’s booming online gaming industry is bracing to spend a jaw-dropping ₹30 crore on just four days of legal hearings in the Supreme Court this May.

Why the high drama (and even higher bills)? The answer lies in a tax battle that’s worth a staggering ₹2.5 lakh crore. The Supreme Court will finally begin hearing the much-anticipated case on May 5 involving show-cause notices issued to some of India’s biggest online gaming companies. 

The issue is whether online games of skill like rummy, poker, and fantasy sports should be treated the same as gambling and betting. The government says yes—and wants to levy 28% GST on the entire face value of each bet. The online real money gaming industry strongly disagrees, arguing that these are not games of chance but of skill—and that applying gambling tax laws here is both unfair and legally flawed.

An elite lineup of legal heavyweights will be representing the gaming firms— Senior counsels Harish Salve, Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mukul Rohatgi, C. Aryama Sundaram, Sajan Poovayya, Vikram Nankani, Arvind Datar, Dhruv Mehta, Gopal Sankarnarayanan, Balbir Singh, and more. These aren’t just lawyers—they’re the equivalent of legal rockstars, each commanding tens of lakhs per appearance.

On the other side, the Union of India will be represented by Additional Solicitor General N. Venkatraman, who will argue in favor of the tax demands and defend the government’s position on retrospective taxation. Some of his notable cases include Kerala v. Union Suit on Borrowing Limits and The Chamber of Tax Consultants vs Director General of Income Tax.

“The cost of litigation since October 2023 must already be around ₹15 crore,” said a senior counsel familiar with the matter. “But the real spike will come in May. For four full days of arguments with top-tier senior counsels appearing in person, you’re looking at nearly ₹30 crore in fees, travel, accommodation, and support teams.”

Siddharth Chandrashekhar, Advocate at the Bombay High Court broke it down more vividly: “High-stakes cases are a different beast. Clients aren’t just paying for time—they’re paying for the space our expertise occupies in your panic stricken mind." 

Another senior counsel cited the reason behind high legal fees charged by senior counsels, "There are a veritable phalanx of senior counsels appearing in this matter. The court craft, style and language used and the way the top senior counsels can read a provision and present an argument can change the complexion of a case."

Beyond the glitz of legal theatrics, the outcome of this case will have enormous implications. A verdict in favor of the gaming firms could set a major precedent, clearly separating skill-based games from gambling under India’s tax and regulatory frameworks. It would be a lifeline for hundreds of companies and thousands of jobs in an industry already reeling from the blow of the 28% GST imposition.

But if the court rules in favor of the government, experts warn of a bloodbath.

“If the Supreme Court upholds the tax demands, many gaming companies might be forced to shut down,” warned Adarsh Somani, Partner at Economic Laws Practice. “Their tax liabilities would far exceed any revenue—let alone profits.”

There’s also a wildcard in play: Section 11A, a recently introduced clause that could allow the government to “regularize” the industry retroactively. “It’ll be interesting to see whether, even if victorious, the government uses this provision to safeguard the industry’s future,” Somani added.

On April 8, when Additional Solicitor General N. Venkatraman and senior counsels for the gaming firms stepped into the Supreme Court. The bench—comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan—was ready to proceed, expecting arguments to kick off immediately. But in a twist, both the parties pleaded for more time.

The court wasn’t thrilled. Justice Pardiwala reportedly remarked that the expectation was for the hearings to begin that very day. Still, after persistent back-and-forth and requests from both sides, the bench reluctantly agreed to adjourn—one last time.

The next date was decided on May 5 and the case will run straight through the week, the court has drawn a hard line—no further adjournments. 

And for four days, the Supreme Court won’t just be the stage for a tax showdown. It will also host one of the expensive legal lineups in the gaming world—and perhaps which could also determine the fate of India’s online gaming sector.

ONLINE GAMING