Will the Maha Government Push the Centre for Online Lottery Regulation?
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Synopsis
With online lotteries and gaming becoming a pressing concern, CM Devendra Fadnavis declares plans to push the central government for regulatory laws. The alarming rise in related incidents highlights the urgency of this initiative.
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra government plans to urge the Centre to regulate online lotteries and gaming.
- Incidents of suicide and fraud highlight the need for legislative measures.
- A total of 11 cases related to online gaming have been reported from 2022 to 2025.
- The Maharashtra Cyber Department is actively conducting awareness campaigns.
- The suspension of a child development officer underscores accountability in child welfare matters.
Mumbai, July 9 (NationPress) In response to the escalating issues surrounding online lotteries and gaming, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the state Council in a written statement that the Maharashtra government plans to urge the central government to formulate a law for their regulation, given the absence of specific laws currently in place.
It is important to note that the Ministry of Union Electronics and Information Technology introduced the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules on April 6, 2023.
In response to a question from member Chitra Wagh, CM Fadnavis, who oversees the Home Department, expressed that the youth's fascination with online gaming is largely driven by the allure of quick money and targeted advertisements.
Tragically, a suicide linked to online gaming occurred in Nashik rural in 2021, followed by another in Gondia in 2023, one in Pimpri Chinchwad in 2024, and two murders alongside a suicide in the Dharashiv district in 2025.
From 2022 to 2025, a total of 11 cases have been documented, including one in Navi Mumbai for fraud in 2025 and another in Nashik.
CM Fadnavis mentioned that the Maharashtra Cyber Department has conducted awareness campaigns through social media and other channels.
Between 2017 and 2019, a total of 3,253 police officers and personnel received training in advanced methods for detecting cyber crimes.
In another matter, CM Fadnavis announced the suspension of the Sambhajinagar District Child Development Officer after Leader of Opposition Ambadas Danve vocally addressed the harassment and atrocities against minor girls in a hostel located in the cantonment area of Sambhajinagar District.
Danve pointed out the unsettling nature of the installation of CCTV in the girls' dormitory, emphasizing that this issue falls under the purview of the District Child Development Officer and that the Child Welfare Committee, being a quasi-judicial authority, is not directly responsible.
“Ten complaints have been lodged with the District Child Development Officer regarding this incident. However, due to his negligence, he must be held accountable and dismissed,” Danve insisted.
“The National Commission for Women has also taken this matter seriously, directing the police and relevant authorities to act. What was the State Women's Commission doing before this issue surfaced?” he questioned.
Taking the concerns raised by Danve seriously, the chief minister ordered the suspension of the Sambhajinagar District Child Development Officer.
Point of View
It is imperative for the Maharashtra government to take proactive measures. The proposed regulation aims to safeguard the youth and ensure responsible gaming practices, reflecting a national commitment to addressing emerging digital challenges.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps is the Maharashtra government taking regarding online lotteries?
The Maharashtra government, led by CM Devendra Fadnavis, plans to urge the Centre for a law regulating online lotteries and gaming due to the absence of specific laws.
Why is there a need for regulation of online gaming?
Online gaming poses risks for youth, with incidents of fraud and related tragedies highlighting the urgent need for regulatory measures.
What incidents have been reported related to online gaming?
Several tragic incidents, including suicides and murders, have been reported in connection with online gaming from 2021 to 2025, prompting calls for regulation.
How is the Maharashtra Cyber Department addressing this issue?
The Maharashtra Cyber Department is conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public about the risks of online gaming and lotteries.
What actions have been taken against officials in relation to child welfare?
The Sambhajinagar District Child Development Officer was suspended following allegations of negligence regarding the safety of minor girls in a hostel.
