Tamil Nadu introduces strict rules for real-money gaming: Mandatory KYC, bank Hours & more
Tamil Nadu introduces strict rules for real-money gaming: Mandatory KYC, bank Hours & more
Tamil Nadu has rolled out new regulations for real-money gaming platforms, adding strict guidelines to control gaming activity and curb addiction. The state’s Online Gaming Authority has mandated a ‘blank hours’ restriction from midnight to 5 AM, during which players won’t be able to log in.
Key Rules Introduced:
✅ No Gaming Between Midnight & 5 AM – Platforms must enforce restricted hours to discourage excessive play.
✅ Mandatory KYC – Players must verify their identity using Aadhaar and OTP authentication at account creation.
✅ Ban on Minors – Only adults can access real-money gaming apps.
✅ Deposit Limits & Alerts – Players can set daily, weekly, and monthly spending limits, and platforms must display caution messages if gaming exceeds an hour.
✅ Addiction Warnings – Apps must prominently display messages like "ONLINE GAMING IS ADDICTIVE IN NATURE" on login pages.
✅ Spending Transparency – Players must see their total deposit limit and amount spent in clear, bold text.
Who Will Be Affected?
The new rules apply only to real-money gaming platforms—games where players deposit money expecting winnings based on performance. The regulations do not impact casual or free-to-play games.
Industry Response
Experts believe the mandatory blank hours rule may be excessive since deposit limits and caution messages are already in place. Gaming lawyer Jay Sayta highlighted the challenge of enforcing these regulations in just one state, as different states may introduce varying rules.
Bigger Picture: India’s Gaming Industry
India’s gaming sector is booming, with revenues reaching $3.8 billion in FY24, of which $2.4 billion came from real-money gaming. The industry is expected to cross $9.2 billion by FY29, growing at 20% annually.
While the Madras High Court lifted the ban on online rummy and poker in November 2023, it allowed Tamil Nadu to regulate playtime and age restrictions. With no uniform national gaming laws, states continue to shape their own policies, adding complexities for gaming platforms.
