Time to bring progressive law, not ban online games: FICCI
Wednesday, 19 January 2022 (15:03 IST)
Chennai: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI) Gaming Committee (FGC) has urged the Tamil Nadu government to adopt an enabling gaming policy protecting players while ensuring a secure and responsible gaming environment.
In a statement here, FICCI Director General Arun Chawla said while we appreciate the intent of the government to protect the users, a wide-ranging ban seems excessive and disproportionate in meeting its objectives.
It shall also severely impact these new technology-driven legitimate businesses that are generating much need jobs and revenues for the State, he said.
The FGC is committed to supporting the government in establishing a safe gaming environment. However, we would like to reiterate that blanket bans do not ensure player protection, but instead benefits unscrupulous fly-by-night operators and encourages illicit and underground gaming activities leading to detrimental impacts on the very populations the government seeks to protect.
He said the FGC believes that the need of the hour is a stable regulatory mechanism capturing clear requirements that protects consumers and operations of lawful operators.
The government should consider regulating this new form of entertainment thereby addressing several issues, most importantly protecting players by providing access to responsible entertainment choices.
The FGC made the remark in response to a recent statement by Chief Minister M.K.Stalin on bringing an end to online gaming in the State.
In February 2021, the State government amended the Tamil Nadu Gaming Act, 1930, banning online games. Subsequently, the Madras High Court struck down the law in August 2021 on the basis of multiple Supreme Court decisions taken in the past reiterating the protection afforded under the constitution to games of skill. (UNI)
