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Revenant Esports has become the first organization in the country to officially collaborate with a broadcaster to acquire a merchandising license. The gaming powerhouse has secured the merchandising and peripherals license for the iconic Naruto franchise through a formal partnership, making it a pioneering move that combines anime fandom with competitive gaming in India.

This marks Revenant’s foray into the anime-themed merchandise space, with plans to release exclusive products including team jerseys, gaming mice, and mousepads.

According to sources familiar with the deal, Revenant Esports, as the merchandise licensee, will pay a royalty fee of 18% on net revenues earned from the sale of merchandise, post recoupment of a Minimum Guarantee Fee. The revenue share will be paid monthly to the licensor. 

Rohit Jagasia, Founder and CEO of Revenant Esports confirmed the development and said, “The Naruto franchise in India has a huge following and we intend to merge its universe with our esports organization for creating a collaborative universe between esports fans and the Naruto franchise. We will be releasing our exclusive merchandise in the peripheral range including our team jerseys and computer peripherals such as gaming mouse, pads, etc. This collaboration will help enhance the brand presence across multiple categories.”

Sujoy Roy Bardhan, Head of Marketing, OAP, Licensing and Merchandising at Sony YAY!, confirmed the development, stating, "Naruto's viewership itself is a fairly large viewership. It is the single largest title that is watched on television today with respect to anime. Other than that, of course, the franchise extends on to Naruto Shippuden, which is like a follow-up series of Naruto."

Currently dominating India’s esports ecosystem with competitive rosters in Valorant, BGMI, Brawl Stars, and Pokémon Unite, Revenant Esports aims to build a crossover universe between esports and anime fans.

Anime meets Esports: Revenant secures Naruto merchandising rights

The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Friday declined to grant immediate relief to Probo Media Technologies Private Limited in its plea to de-freeze bank accounts frozen by Haryana Police amid allegations of gambling and cheating. The court has scheduled the next hearing for June 10.

A bench led by Justice Anil Kshetarpal directed the state to file a response on whether the bank accounts could be partially de-frozen to allow payment of employee salaries and essential business expenses. During the hearing, Probo’s counsel emphasized that the company was currently seeking limited relief to manage day-to-day operations. The state’s counsel requested additional time to obtain complete instructions, which will be addressed in Tuesday’s proceedings.

This legal battle follows a recent Supreme Court decision on June 2, where a plea to de-freeze a bank account containing over ₹100 crore was rejected. The account was frozen as part of an investigation by Haryana Police after a First Information Report (FIR) was filed on March 25, 2025, at Sector 50 Police Station, Gurugram.

The FIR, filed by a local resident, Abhishek Jain, alleges he lost ₹20,000 while using the Probo app, which allows users to place wagers on the outcomes of real-world events through binary “Yes” or “No” responses. Jain claimed the app misled users by disguising gambling as “opinion trading.”

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Probo in the Supreme Court, argued that freezing the company’s entire bank account over a ₹20,000 dispute was a disproportionate measure that has paralyzed business operations.

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Augustine George Masih, acknowledged the seemingly minor nature of the allegation but noted that the High Court was already handling the matter. It advised Probo to seek interim relief from the High Court’s vacation bench ahead of the July session.

The FIR invokes Section 13 of the Public Gambling Act, 1867, and Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to cheating and dishonest delivery of property. Probo directors Ashish Garg, Sachin Subashchandra Gupta, and Shweta Sharma are named as accused in the complaint.

Probo’s ₹100 Cr bank account remains frozen; Punjab & Haryana HC seek state's reply

Real-money gaming platform PlayerzPot has suspended its opinion trading operations in the states of Haryana and Tamil Nadu, as mounting legal challenges continue to impact the sector. The move follows a wave of regulatory scrutiny on platforms offering prediction-based services, which many authorities argue resemble speculative gambling.

PlayerzPot, a Mumbai-based Series A startup founded in 2015 by Yogesh Doiphode and Mitesh Gangar, operates as a multi-sports fantasy and gaming platform. In 2020, the company secured $3.08 million in funding from Gameskraft. While it initially ventured into the rapidly growing opinion trading segment, the current legal climate appears to be forcing a course correction.

“The company has stopped services in Haryana and Tamil Nadu. It is reviewing legalities and is likely to stop operation across India,” confirmed a top source in the real-money gaming (RMG) industry.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court has called for an immediate ban on opinion trading platforms, including prohibitions on their advertising and promotional activities. Similar cases are currently being heard by the High Courts of Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, and Bombay, all of which question the legitimacy of these platforms under the guise of skill-based prediction.

PlayerzPot is not alone in its retreat. Other platforms such as SportsBaazi, MPL Opinio, Probo, and TradeX have already exited the Haryana market. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government has issued legal notices to multiple companies for alleged violations of the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA) Regulations, 2025.

The lack of a defined regulatory framework for opinion-based games has left the industry in a legal gray area. Despite attracting substantial user engagement and revenue, the model’s close resemblance to gambling has alarmed regulators and industry stakeholders alike.

Chhattisgarh recently imposed a state-wide ban on these platforms, and several other states are reportedly considering similar action. Opinion trading services such as SportsBaazi, Probo, and TradeX remain banned in Chhattisgarh.

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has intensified pressure on the central government, urging a nationwide ban on opinion trading platforms. In a strongly worded letter to IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, the CAIT described these platforms as "online satta," warning that they pose a significant threat to India’s democratic institutions by enabling users to speculate on sensitive issues like election outcomes.

Adding to the chorus of concern, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) recently issued a public advisory warning investors against engaging with such platforms. The market regulator pointed out that these services often involve binary “yes/no” propositions, which effectively amount to betting on uncertain events.

SEBI also criticized the use of financial jargon by opinion trading platforms, noting that terms like "profits," "stop loss," and "trading" create a misleading impression that users are investing in regulated securities markets.

‘Online Satta’ under scanner: PlayerzPot shuts opinion trading in Haryana, Tamil Nadu

A recent Supreme Court ruling on May 22 has triggered concerns of a looming taxation storm over India’s booming digital entertainment economy. By affirming the validity of dual taxation—allowing both the Centre and State governments to levy service tax and entertainment tax on television broadcasting—the apex court has opened the floodgates for a fragmented and possibly burdensome fiscal regime that may soon envelop OTT platforms and online gaming services.

In its decision in State of Kerala & Anr. vs Asianet Satellite Communications Ltd. & Anr., a bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and NK Singh invoked the “aspect theory,” enabling different levels of government to tax different dimensions of the same activity. While the ruling technically pertains to the pre-GST era, legal experts warn it sets a precedent that could dramatically alter the tax landscape for digital platforms.

“This judgment may embolden state governments to impose entertainment or luxury taxes on OTT and gaming platforms, despite the GST regime,” warned Ruby Singh Ahuja, Senior Partner at Karanjawala & Co. "OTT platforms have become the preferred mode of entertainment. Dual tax imposition could severely affect these sectors, especially as OTT has emerged as a vital substitute for the struggling film industry."

The Court’s interpretation of Entry 62 of the State List—as extending to digital entertainment—further broadens the scope for such state-level levies. Observers say this could undermine the uniformity that GST sought to bring through the promise of “One Nation, One Tax.”

Snigdhaneel Satpathy, Partner at Saraf and Partners, echoed similar concerns, noting that the court's endorsement of dual taxation could introduce a new era of regulatory and fiscal uncertainty.

"This decentralisation of tax authority, though legally sound, risks undermining the very spirit of GST—a reform built on the promise of ‘One Nation, One Tax,’" Satpathy said. "If each state begins to impose its own entertainment levies on digital services, we may find ourselves navigating a compliance maze that’s more binge-worthy than the content itself."

Satpathy warned that cash-strapped states might now be incentivised to introduce new forms of levies, such as entertainment taxes or welfare-oriented cesses on OTT subscriptions and gaming transactions.

The concern is not theoretical. Some states facing revenue pressures are already exploring alternate paths—such as regulatory cesses and welfare levies—that could skirt GST limitations and target digital entertainment.

“What began as a judgment about television may end up reshaping India’s digital economy,” Satpathy added. “In the long run, this could mean higher consumer prices, compliance nightmares, and increased legal uncertainty for investors.”

Even though the judgment is centered around a now-defunct tax regime, industry stakeholders fear it could pave the way for future interpretations that allow states greater leeway in taxing the digital economy.

Asish Philip, Partner at Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan, acknowledged that the direct impact may be confined to legacy cases, but the precedent set by reaffirming the “aspect theory” could be invoked in new tax regimes by both Centre and States.

While the GST regime was intended to harmonise India's indirect tax structure, this ruling reintroduces complexities from a federalist standpoint. "The GST framework was designed to simplify and harmonise taxation," said Philip. But this ruling revives the ghost of dual taxation, particularly for sectors like OTT and online gaming, which straddle both entertainment and service components."

Philip, however, emphasized that the ruling's direct applicability is largely confined to the pre-GST era. "The impact of this ruling should be limited to cases predating GST implementation, since the judgment hinges on the dual levies permissible under the older tax framework," he added.

Nonetheless, the broad legal reasoning adopted by the Court may be invoked in future disputes or legislative innovations, say observers. The concern now is less about retrospective taxes and more about the roadmap the ruling provides for future regulation and taxation.

One such example is the Karnataka Cine and Cultural Activists (Welfare) Act, 2024, which proposes a cess on various activities, including subscription fees for OTT platforms. Legal experts believe that such mechanisms, though not explicitly barred by GST provisions, could resurface through creative fiscal routes.

Shashi Mathews, Partner at IndusLaw, noted that the Supreme Court's interpretation of Entries 33 and 62 in the State List of the Constitution could embolden state governments.

"The Court observed that with advancements in technology, entertainment is no longer confined to physical venues. Telecasts on television, mobile, and digital platforms could now fall under the scope of entertainment, giving states an open hand to tax digital services as well," Mathews said.

India’s OTT market is projected to reach $7 billion by 2030, while its gaming industry is growing at a CAGR of over 20%. Both sectors are vulnerable to unpredictable taxation, especially if state-specific levies proliferate.

"The long-term impact on the entertainment industry will depend on how policymakers balance fiscal autonomy with regulatory harmony," said Satpathy. "For now, businesses must brace for complexity—and perhaps, a few plot twists."

Experts warn that if states move ahead with entertainment cesses, it could increase operational costs, push up consumer prices, and discourage new investments in digital entertainment.

One nation, one tax at risk: Experts warn as SC ruling creates chaos for OTT, Gaming industry

In a significant setback to India’s Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry, the Madras High Court on Monday dismissed a series of writ petitions filed by top gaming operators, thereby upholding Tamil Nadu’s contentious online gaming regulations. The decision is expected to trigger a domino effect, as legal experts warn that other states may follow Tamil Nadu's lead, potentially fragmenting the regulatory landscape.

A bench of Justices S.M. Subramaniam and K. Rajasekar ruled in favour of the Tamil Nadu government, rejecting petitions filed by prominent gaming firms including Head Digital Works (parent company of A23), Games24x7, and Junglee Games. The companies had challenged the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (Real Money Games) Regulations, 2025, and key provisions of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Act, 2022.

The court observed that the State reserves its right to legislate matters related to Public health and more specifically the State Government’s competence to legislate on online real money games remain undeterred by virtue of Entry 6 (public health) and 26 (trade and commerce) in List II of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/breaking-big-blow-to-rmg-industry-madras-hc-upholds-tamil-nadu-online-gaming-regulations-68495.htm">Read More: Breaking: Big blow to RMG industry, Madras HC upholds Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Regulations</a>

The judgement reads, “This Court is of the view that any online games or online entertainment is subject to regulation when it affects the public health of people at large. The focal test is that the ill-effects of such online activity must be directly linked to the public health and must result in serious social repercussions if left unregulated.” 

“Any such online entertainment/game/trade then shall be subjected to regulation. The State cannot remain a mute spectator when the population at large is exposed to serious physical, mental and financial risks due to a constant exposure to a specific online entertainment/games/trade. In circumstances where a total prohibition is not possible at least a minimum of regulation becomes a necessity."

Industry stakeholders have raised alarm over the far-reaching consequences. Vikram Lungi, a Professional Poker player and TN Lead, EPWA said, “This verdict directly impacts our ability to earn and compete. Real money gaming is not just a hobby for us it’s our livelihood. There are thousands of us whose careers depend on fair and open access.” 

Lungi further said, “We hope that there’s no domino effect where other states bring in similar restrictions without understanding the realities of professional gaming. What starts in Tamil Nadu could slowly cut off players across India from opportunities we’ve worked years to build.” 

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/state-has-no-jurisdiction-epwa-counters-gaming-regulation-in-madras-hc-61727.htm">Read More: 'State Has No Jurisdiction': EPWA counters Gaming Regulation in Madras HC</a>

Legal experts predict that the matter will reach the Supreme Court, where a final call on regulatory authority—central vs. state—could be made.

Jay Sayta, a technology and gaming lawyer, remarked, "This decision may set a precedent wherein other states may also try and impose similar restrictions and it may become impossible for RMG companies to comply with varying restrictions of different states. The matter is certain to be appealed in the Supreme Court, the apex court is ultimately likely to decide on the validity of such restrictions as also the long-pending issue of whether states or the central government have the power to regulate online real money games.”

Sayta said, “Ideally there should be unified regulations for online real money games at the central-level but the issue of legislative competence, i.e. whether states or central government can regulate the activity is still pending before the Supreme Court. Nevertheless, a collaborative approach of both centre and states is required to bring in model regulations for the industry.”

Asish Philip, Partner at Lakshmikumaran and Sridharan Attorneys, added, “The biggest hurdle to unified gaming framework is the lack of a binding central authority to ensure uniformity across state laws. While MeitY has proposed setting up of SROs, the actual implementation has not taken place. Further, the constitutional allocation of powers which allows states to prohibit games of chance and regulate games of skill has also promoted several states to introduce their own gaming legislations leading to a fragmented framework.”

The RMG companies specifically challenged the TNOGA (RMG) Regulations of 2025, particularly Regulations 4(iii) and 4(viii). The petitioners also sought clarity on other regulations, such as banning minors from playing, mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, monetary limits per player, and pop-up warnings about gaming addiction.
These restrictions include Aadhaar-based verification for real money games (RMG) and a mandatory ban on gameplay between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/exclusive-a-23-games-24x7-junglee-games-take-tamil-nadu-govt-to-court-57569.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: A23, Games 24x7, Junglee Games take Tamil Nadu govt to court</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/meity-to-madras-hc-mandatory-aadhaar-authentication-for-rmg-requires-parliamentary-legislation-67323.htm">Read More: MeitY to Madras HC: Mandatory Aadhaar authentication for RMG requires Parliamentary legislation</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/breaking-madras-hc-refuses-interim-relief-to-rmg-companies-sets-final-hearing-for-march-27-59861.htm">Read More: Breaking: Madras HC refuses interim relief to RMG companies, sets final hearing for March 27</a>

Madras HC upholds Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Law, experts fear domino effect in other states

The Madras High Court on Monday dismissed a series of writ petitions filed by major Real Money Gaming (RMG) operators, thereby upholding the validity of Tamil Nadu's newly enforced online gaming regulations.

A bench comprising Justices S.M. Subramaniam and K. Rajasekar ruled in favor of the Tamil Nadu government, rejecting the petitions filed by A23’s parent company Head Digital Works, Games24x7, and Junglee Games and others. The companies had challenged the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (Real Money Games) Regulations, 2025, and sought to strike down specific provisions of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Act, 2022.

The RMG firms, all members of the E-Gaming Federation, had argued that the state’s regulations—particularly the prohibition on gaming between midnight and 5 AM—were arbitrary, unconstitutional, and discriminatory, especially in their application to online games of skill played for money. They sought to declare Section 5 read with Section 14 of the Act and the 2025 Regulations as ultra vires and void.

However, the court disagreed. In its judgment, the bench emphasized that Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to practice any profession or carry on any trade or business, must be balanced against Article 21, which safeguards the right to life and personal liberty.

“Article 19(1)(g) cannot override the right to health and life under Article 21,” the court observed, underscoring the state’s “incumbent duty to protect the life, physical, financial, and mental health of the players.”

The judges held that the freedom to conduct business in the RMG sector is subject to reasonable restrictions, particularly when public health and safety are at stake. Referring to the Supreme Court's landmark Puttaswamy judgment, which recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right, the High Court noted that this right is not absolute and is also subject to restrictions when weighed against broader public interest.

Rejecting the arguments made by the petitioners, the bench concluded: “In view of the discussions, the writ petitioners have not made out a case to grant the relief sought for, and all the writ petitions are dismissed.”

The respondents in the case included the State of Tamil Nadu, the Director General of Police, the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA), and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

Breaking: Big blow to RMG industry, Madras HC upholds Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Regulations

Opinion trading platform Probo Media Technologies Private Limited has suffered another legal setback, with the Supreme Court refusing to entertain its plea to de-freeze a bank account containing over ₹100 crore. The account was frozen by Haryana Police following allegations of gambling and cheating against the company and its directors.

The freezing order stems from a First Information Report (FIR) filed on March 25, 2025, at Sector 50 Police Station in Gurugram, based on a complaint by local resident Abhishek Jain. Jain claims he lost approximately ₹20,000 on the Probo app, which allows users to place wagers on the outcomes of various real-world events with "Yes" or "No" answers. According to the complaint, users are “lured and induced into gambling and betting” under the pretense of opinion trading.

In the Supreme Court, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Probo, argued that freezing the company's entire bank account due to a ₹20,000 transaction was a disproportionate response. He added that the freeze had brought Probo’s business operations to a standstill.

However, a Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Augustine George Masih noted that, although the alleged offence was minor, the case was already under review by the High Court. The bench advised the company to approach the High Court’s vacation bench for earlier relief before the July hearing.

The FIR has invoked Section 13 of the Public Gambling Act, 1867, and Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to cheating and dishonest delivery of property. Named in the complaint are Probo directors Ashish Garg, Sachin Subashchandra Gupta, and Shweta Sharma.

Opinion trading platforms SportsBaazi, Probo and TradeX were first banned in Chhattisgarh. It was later prohibited in Haryana. Multiple platforms including MPL Opinio, SportsBaazi and TradeX were forced to shut down their operations in the state. 

Probo had earlier approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking to quash the FIR and requesting interim protection. Despite hearing the matter on May 22, 2025, Justice Sukhvinder Kaur declined to offer any stay or interim relief, instead issuing a notice to the Haryana government and scheduling the next hearing for July 15, 2025.

This is not the first time Probo has faced regulatory action. In January 2025, Rajasthan Police directed Yes Bank to block transactions linked to the platform after a complaint of fraud involving ₹5,000 was registered at Jyoti Nagar Police Station.

Advocate Prateek Kasliwal had raised broader concerns about such platforms. “These apps allow users to bet on everything from political events to asset prices,” he said. “Similar platforms are banned in countries like Singapore, the UK, and Taiwan due to concerns over gambling laws and risks of electoral interference.”

Kasliwal had also warned that the current cases might only scratch the surface of a larger issue. “Many such platforms operate in regulatory grey areas, and they could be putting millions of users at financial risk,” he added.

Earlier, 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.

Storyboard18 reached out to Probo for a comment, they have declined to share an official statement. 

SC refuses to De-freeze ₹100 Cr account of opinion trading platform Probo

As Karnataka inches closer to unveiling a comprehensive regulatory framework for the online real money gaming (RMG) industry, the state government has transferred a key officer who was leading consultations with industry stakeholders.

Bhushan Gulabrao Borase, a 2009 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, who was serving as the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Cyber Crime and Narcotics, has been appointed as the Commissioner of Belagavi City. Borase played a crucial role in initial discussions with various gaming bodies and was seen as a pivotal figure in shaping the upcoming policy framework.

The transfer comes at a critical juncture as the state is set to introduce a whitelisting mechanism aimed at legitimizing RMG operators, amid growing concerns over illegal online betting activities. Sources familiar with the development said that despite the officer’s transfer, the state remains committed to rolling out the new framework by the end of the year.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/exclusive-karnataka-govt-to-introduce-whitelist-for-real-money-gaming-operators-62968.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: Karnataka govt to introduce whitelist for Real Money Gaming operators</a>

As per official data, Karnataka Police have registered 897 cases related to online betting in the past three years. This includes 492 cases in 2023, 382 in 2024, and 23 cases between January and March of 2025. 

The transfer of Borase raises questions about continuity and leadership in the policy’s development, especially as Karnataka attempts to become the first Indian state to implement a whitelisting model for RMG operators. Industry representatives expressed hope that the initiative would continue without disruption. “Karnataka is taking a progressive approach,” said one stakeholder. “Whitelisting legitimate companies and cracking down on illegal operators will support sector growth.”

Speaking after concluding a two-day review meeting with all deputy commissioners and Zilla Panchayat chief executives, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge and Law Minister H K Patil were discussing ways to tackle online betting. “We are discussing if a law should be introduced. We will arrive at a conclusion soon,” Siddaramaiah said. In a statement, Siddaramaiah said youngsters are “falling prey” to the “cricket betting business”.

“Indiscriminate action should be taken without succumbing to any pressure. Deputy Commissioners are fully responsible for this,” Siddaramaiah said.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/karnataka-eyes-year-end-gaming-regulation-but-will-it-abandon-its-sc-battle-61945.htm">Read More: Karnataka eyes year-end gaming regulation, but will it abandon its SC battle?</a>

Karnataka government 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 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. The outcome is expected to have far-reaching implications for the future of India’s online gaming industry.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/tamil-nadus-regulatory-model-not-a-fit-for-karnataka-rmg-stakeholders-tell-govt-61834.htm">Read More: Tamil Nadu’s regulatory model not a fit for Karnataka, RMG stakeholders tell govt</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/karnataka-unveils-indias-first-industry-led-digital-detox-initiative-59413.htm">Read More: Karnataka unveils India’s first industry-led digital detox initiative</a>

Key IPS officer leading Karnataka's online gaming policy transferred

Meta has revised its advertising policy to permit Real Money Gaming (RMG) operators in India to advertise on its platforms, a move that has been widely welcomed by the gaming industry. Experts anticipate the policy change could lead to a 30% surge in ad spending by RMG operators, primarily directed toward Meta’s digital platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.

Storyboard18 was first to report about Meta's change in policy, allowing Real Money Gaming operators to advertise on Meta platforms including Facebook and Instagram. Meta India's ad revenue climbed 24% to Rs 22,730 crore in FY24 while Google India's ad revenue grew by 11% to Rs 31,221 crore in FY24 from Rs 28,040 crore in 2023. 

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/exclusive-meta-allows-rmg-advertising-in-india-with-legal-compliance-certificates-67902.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: Meta allows RMG advertising in India with legal compliance certificates</a>

Under the updated guidelines, Meta classifies online gambling and gaming as any product or service where something of monetary value is involved in either entry or prizes. While advertisements in this category remain restricted, they are now permissible with prior written authorization from Meta, provided all applicable legal and regulatory requirements are met.

Meta's policy outlines a comprehensive list of gaming types that require written approval, including betting, lotteries, raffles, casino games, fantasy sports, bingo, poker, skill-based tournaments, and sweepstakes. Games involving monetary rewards—whether cash or digital currency like Bitcoin—also fall within this purview. Even advertisements directing users to landing pages containing promotional content for such games must obtain approval, irrespective of whether the platform allows direct gameplay.

To secure Meta’s approval, advertisers must formally apply and provide evidence that their gaming operations are legally authorized in the jurisdictions they intend to target. They must also adhere to strict targeting parameters, including age-gating content to prevent access by individuals under 18.

Industry stakeholders have largely hailed the development as a progressive step. “This is indeed a great step from Meta,” said Govind Mittal, Chief of Staff at Zupee. “It will help Indian startups and our skill-based games reach wider audiences, creating a level playing field. This change corrects a long-standing market distortion where legitimate, tax-paying Indian companies needed to present court rulings just to advertise."

An RMG operator, speaking on condition of anonymity, added, “This is a major development for the industry. We now hope Google will follow suit. Meta’s policy, especially the requirement to restrict ads to users aged 18 and above, supports the industry’s commitment to safe and responsible gaming.”

Roland Landers, CEO of the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), also welcomed the policy update. "We welcome Meta’s significant shift in its advertising policy towards greater clarity and compliance for Real Money Gaming (RMG) advertisers. The new framework is a major step forward in aligning global platform policy with India’s regulatory and legal realities. It ensures that only authorized, responsible operators can access Meta’s ad inventory while protecting users especially minors from exposure to unregulated gaming content."

Landers further said, "As the oldest and largest industry body for online skill gaming in India, AIGF has long championed self-regulation and legality in gaming. For nearly a decade, we have run the most exhaustive voluntary skill game certification process in the country, rooted in legal validation and integrity. We are pleased that Meta now recognizes AIGF issued certificates as valid proof for legal and skill-based classification of games."

This milestone reflects the impact of sustained industry platform dialogue and positions India’s legitimate gaming sector for more responsible and structured growth in digital advertising environments. He added. 

AIGF in a memo to all its members stated that going forward, RMG advertisers can submit either a court order confirming the game as one of skill or a certificate from AIGF or other recognized federations to gain advertising approval. “This marks a major step forward in streamlining the ad approval process for RMG operators in India,” the federation added, noting that a more detailed operational process will be released in the coming weeks.

With Meta’s doors now open to RMG advertisements under strict compliance conditions, industry insiders believe this could mark a new era of growth, innovation, and regulation in the Indian gaming landscape.

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The Opinion Trading platforms SportsBaazi and Probo have officially shut operations in the state of Haryana. The move comes in the wake of the Haryana government’s introduction of the Prevention of Public Gambling Act, 2025—an aggressive new law that targets online gambling, sports betting, and match-fixing with stringent penalties.

Haryana isn’t alone in targeting these platforms. Earlier, the Chhattisgarh government invoked its own Gambling Prohibition Act, 2022, to ban opinion trading services.

SportsBaazi, known for offering sports-based prediction markets, quietly updated its website with a disclaimer listing Haryana among the states where services are now unavailable. The message joins a growing list of restricted regions including Assam, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Nagaland. SportsBaazi declined to comment on queries sent by Storyboard18. 

Probo, a prominent player in the opinion trading space, confirmed it had “temporarily suspended” operations in Haryana. "Owing to implementation issues regarding the Act, Probo has taken the decision to temporarily suspend operations in the state of Haryana. We continue to engage with the concerned regulatory authorities and are hopeful to resolve the issue shortly. We remain committed to serving our customers and will resume operations once the situation is clear." a company spokesperson told Storyboard18.

But the company isn't stopping there. Probo Media Technologies Private Limited has filed a writ petition in the Punjab & Haryana High Court challenging the constitutional validity of the new gambling law. It has also approached the Supreme Court, requesting the consolidation of similar Public Interest Litigations (PILs) from Gujarat and Chhattisgarh in the Bombay High Court—a move aimed at avoiding contradictory judicial rulings and saving time.

Platforms like MPL Opinio too have shut down operations in Haryana, while TradeX went a step further, ceasing all Real Money Gaming services nationwide.

The Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Act, 2025—tabled during the recent state budget session by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini—carries serious consequences. The law mandates a minimum three-year prison term and a fine of at least ₹5 lakh for those caught in match-fixing or spot-fixing activities. Repeat offenders could face up to seven years behind bars.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/digital-satta-haryanas-new-gambling-bill-casts-shadow-over-opinion-trading-platforms-63411.htm">Read More: Digital Satta: Haryana govt’s new Gambling Act casts shadow over Opinion Trading platforms</a>

Critically, the law also expands the definition of betting. A “bet” is now legally described as any agreement, oral or written, between two or more parties about an event with an unknown outcome, where the loser must pay or forfeit a predetermined consideration. This definition mirrors the operational model of many opinion trading platforms, which allow users to place stakes on future outcomes ranging from sports to elections.

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The regulatory noose tightened further when the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a public advisory cautioning investors against these platforms. SEBI warned that while these platforms use familiar trading jargon like “profits” and “stop loss,” they are not registered exchanges nor are they regulated under securities laws. Transactions on such platforms, therefore, offer no investor protection and could invite legal consequences.

As the debate over regulation continues, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has published a whitepaper titled "Examining Opinion Trading in India." The report highlights the sector’s explosive growth—more than 50 million users and ₹50,000 crore in annual transactions—and calls for urgent regulatory clarity to protect consumers and ensure ethical advertising practices.

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.

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