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Why Have These Gaming Apps Been Banned?
India’s online gaming industry faced a massive shake-up on 21 August 2025, when the government passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025.
This new law bans all real-money gaming platforms—apps where users stake money on fantasy sports, poker, rummy, and other skill-based contests.
Key rules include:
- Complete ban on real-money online games.
- Restrictions on advertisements and promotions of such games.
- Financial transactions for money-based gaming prohibited.
As a result, popular apps like Dream11, MPL, Zupee, and PokerBaazi have suspended their paid operations overnight.
Which Platforms Have Stopped Services?
- Dream11 & MPL: India’s biggest fantasy sports and e-sports platforms have officially halted their cash contests.
- Zupee: Announced it will continue only free-to-play titles like Ludo and Snakes & Ladders, while shutting down money-based games.
- PokerBaazi: Terminated all real-money poker operations.
- App Stores Impact: Google and Apple are preparing to remove such apps from Play Store and App Store respectively.
The Burning Question: What About User Funds?
One of the biggest concerns for millions of users is the safety of their wallet balance. The new bill makes it mandatory that:
- Platforms must keep user funds in separate escrow accounts.
- Refunds must be processed transparently if operations are discontinued.
- A grievance mechanism and Online Gaming Appellate Tribunal will oversee disputes.
So in principle, users should receive their deposits back.
However, the actual refund speed and efficiency will depend on how each company manages the transition.
Industry Shockwaves
The ban has created ripples across India’s startup and tech ecosystem:
- Estimated ₹25,000 crore in investments and over 200,000 jobs are at risk.
- The government may lose a huge chunk of GST revenue generated from online gaming.
- Industry voices like Anupam Mittal (Shaadi.com founder) criticized the move, calling it “moral policing disguised as policy,” warning that users might shift to offshore and black-market apps.
What Should Users Do Now?
If you have money stuck in Dream11, MPL, Zupee or PokerBaazi:
- Log in immediately and check for any official refund notification.
- Withdraw your balance (if withdrawal option is still active).
- In case of disputes, file a complaint with the Appellate Tribunal or approach a Consumer Court.
- Avoid downloading illegal or offshore gaming apps which may not safeguard your funds.
Conclusion
The ban on real-money gaming marks a historic shift in India’s digital entertainment industry. While companies and investors are counting losses, users are primarily worried about refunds. Legally, refunds are mandatory, but execution may vary from platform to platform.
For now, the safest approach is to initiate withdrawals quickly and stay updated through official app notifications.