Mumbai: The Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, is advocating for a ban on online gaming platforms, particularly those involving real-money transactions. This move comes in response to growing concerns about youth addiction, rising crime, and tragic incidents linked to these platforms.
Concerns Over Addiction and Crime
Fadnavis highlighted the severity of the issue, citing cases of financial ruin, crime, and even suicides linked to online gaming addiction. A recent incident in which a man sold his property to fund his gaming habit, only to murder his pregnant wife and two-year-old child before taking his own life, has sparked widespread outrage.
Regulatory Challenges
The state government faces challenges in regulating online gaming platforms since most are hosted outside India. Fadnavis has urged the central government to take action, emphasizing that only the Union government can frame laws to regulate such apps.
Government Action
The state has established 50 cyber police stations and launched awareness campaigns to educate youth and parents about safe gaming practices. The government is also considering restricting celebrity endorsements of gaming apps under state advertising laws.
Potential Impact
A blanket ban on online gaming could lead to massive job losses, stifle entrepreneurship, and block the country's progress toward becoming a major player in the global digital economy. Companies like Delta Corp, Nazara Technologies, and OnMobile Global may be affected by the proposed ban, with investors closely monitoring regulatory developments.
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