Karnataka High Court to Hear A23’s Challenge to Online Gaming Ban on August 30

The Karnataka High Court will hear a petition on August 30 by leading online gaming company A23 challenging the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025.

The new law bans all forms of online money gaming in India, removing the prior distinction between games of skill and chance. It criminalises offering, facilitating, or processing financial transactions linked to such games, imposing severe penalties including up to three years imprisonment and fines up to ₹1 crore.

The government defends the ban, citing addiction, financial risks, and links to crime. Critics argue the law infringes constitutional rights by equating skill games with gambling.