Tamil Nadu Court Upholds Real-Money Gaming Restrictions: Mandatory Aadhaar Verification & Curfew Enforced
In a landmark decision, the Madras High Court has upheld Tamil Nadu’s new regulatory framework for online real-money gaming, reinforcing the state’s authority to enforce strict consumer protection rules.
Key measures approved:
- Curfew for online gaming between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM
- Mandatory Aadhaar-based two-factor authentication for all users
- Age, time, and spending limits per player
The court ruled that these restrictions are constitutionally valid and necessary due to the public health risks associated with unregulated online gaming. The government had argued that excessive gaming leads to addiction, financial distress, and social issues—especially among youth.
“The law is not a blanket ban on online gaming, but a structured regulation to safeguard vulnerable users,” the court emphasized.
Why this matters:
This ruling sets a legal precedent for other Indian states looking to regulate online gambling and fantasy platforms. It affirms that state-level gaming authorities can enforce time restrictions, identity verification, and spending controls without violating individual freedoms or business rights.
Industry impact:
Operators offering real-money games in Tamil Nadu—including rummy, poker, and fantasy sports—are now required to:
- Integrate Aadhaar verification systems
- Disable app access during the curfew window
- Enforce real-time player protection limits
Failure to comply may lead to penalties, app removal, or legal action under the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Act.
Bottom line:
This is a major shift in India’s gaming regulation, signaling that consumer safety and responsible gaming are no longer optional – they’re legally enforceable. Tamil Nadu is now at the forefront of digital gaming reform in India.