The Indian online gaming landscape witnessed a seismic shift in August 2025 when the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025. This landmark legislation has effectively banned My11Circle, along with other major fantasy sports and real-money gaming platforms, marking what many consider the “darkest day” for India’s online gaming industry.
Understanding the Ban: What Happened?
The Online Gaming Bill 2025, passed by both houses of Parliament in August 2025, specifically targets platforms that facilitate real-money gaming. My11Circle, operated by Games24x7, falls directly under this prohibition as a fantasy sports platform where users participate with real money stakes.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The legislation distinguishes between different types of online gaming:
- Banned: Real-money games including fantasy sports, poker, rummy, and betting platforms
- Allowed: Free-to-play games, e-sports, and social gaming without monetary transactions
This means that while games like BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) and Real Cricket remain unaffected, platforms like My11Circle, Dream11, MPL, and Winzo face complete prohibition.
Impact on My11Circle Users
Immediate Consequences
Service Discontinuation: My11Circle has begun the process of discontinuing its paid gaming services in compliance with the new law. Users can no longer participate in contests that involve real money.
Account Freezing: Existing user accounts with monetary balances are being processed for withdrawal, but new deposits have been suspended.
Contest Cancellation: All ongoing and scheduled paid contests have been either cancelled or converted to free-play formats where applicable.
Financial Impact on Users
The ban affects millions of My11Circle users across India who had active accounts and pending winnings. The platform is working to ensure that users can withdraw their existing balances, but the timeline for complete settlement remains unclear.
Severe Penalties Under the New Law
The Online Gaming Bill 2025 introduces stringent penalties that extend beyond platform operators to potentially affect users as well:
For Platform Operators
- Imprisonment: Up to 3 years for first-time offenders
- Fines: Up to ₹1 crore for violations
- Repeat Offenders: Enhanced penalties of 3-5 years imprisonment and fines up to ₹2 crore
- Platform Shutdown: Complete cessation of operations
For Advertisers and Promoters
- Celebrity Endorsers: Strict penalties for celebrities and influencers who promoted these platforms
- Advertisement Bans: Complete prohibition on advertising real-money gaming platforms
- Media Restrictions: Penalties for media outlets that continue to promote banned platforms
User Implications
While the bill primarily targets operators, users should be aware that:
- Participating in banned platforms could potentially lead to legal complications
- Financial transactions with prohibited platforms may be monitored
- VPN usage to access banned services could violate the law
Industry-Wide Economic Impact
The ban represents a massive blow to India’s gaming industry:
Financial Losses
- Investment Impact: Approximately ₹25,000 crore in investments are at risk
- Foreign Direct Investment: Significant FDI outflows expected
- GST Revenue: Substantial loss in government tax revenue
- Employment: Thousands of jobs in the gaming sector face uncertainty
Market Disruption
The legislation affects major players including:
- My11Circle (Games24x7)
- Dream11 (Dream Sports)
- MPL (Mobile Premier League)
- Winzo
- Pokerbaazi
- RummyCircle
- Parimatch
What’s Next for My11Circle Users?
Immediate Steps for Users
1. Withdraw Existing Balances
- Log into your My11Circle account immediately
- Initiate withdrawal of any remaining balance
- Ensure your banking details are updated and verified
- Monitor your account for refund processing
2. Data and Privacy Concerns
- Review your personal data stored on the platform
- Consider requesting data deletion if the platform offers this option
- Update privacy settings to limit data sharing
3. Alternative Options
- Explore free-to-play fantasy sports games that don’t involve real money
- Consider traditional sports betting options in states where legal
- Look into skill-based e-sports competitions that remain permitted
Long-term Outlook
Legal Challenges IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has acknowledged that gaming companies can challenge the ban in court. Several operators, including those behind My11Circle, are likely to pursue legal remedies, which could potentially:
- Delay implementation of the ban
- Lead to modifications in the legislation
- Create regulatory uncertainty
Industry Adaptation Some platforms are already pivoting their business models:
- Converting to free-play formats
- Focusing on e-sports and skill-based competitions
- Developing educational gaming content
- Exploring international markets
Regulatory Framework and Enforcement
Central Authority
The Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) will serve as the central regulator, with plans to establish a dedicated authority for:
- Monitoring compliance
- Promoting legitimate e-sports
- Distinguishing between banned and permitted gaming formats
Enforcement Mechanisms
- Cognizable Offenses: Violations are treated as serious crimes
- Non-bailable: Offenses under the act are non-bailable
- ISP Blocking: Internet service providers will be required to block access to banned platforms
- Financial Monitoring: Banking transactions with prohibited platforms will be monitored
What Users Should Avoid
To stay compliant with the new law, My11Circle users should avoid:
- Using VPNs to access banned platforms
- Participating in underground gaming networks
- Promoting or advertising banned platforms on social media
- Financial transactions with prohibited gaming companies
- Creating alternative accounts on banned platforms
The Road Ahead
For the Gaming Industry
The industry faces a critical juncture with several potential outcomes:
- Legal Battles: Extended court challenges could create a complex legal landscape
- Business Model Innovation: Companies may develop new formats that comply with regulations
- International Expansion: Indian gaming companies might focus on global markets
- Technology Pivot: Shift towards blockchain, AI, and other emerging technologies
For Users
Fantasy sports enthusiasts and My11Circle users have several paths forward:
- Free Gaming: Participate in free fantasy leagues and tournaments
- E-sports: Engage with competitive gaming that doesn’t involve real money
- Traditional Sports: Focus on actual sports participation and viewing
- International Platforms: Consider legal alternatives in other jurisdictions (where permitted)
Government’s Rationale
The government has justified the ban citing several concerns:
- Addiction Prevention: Protecting citizens from gaming addiction
- Financial Fraud: Preventing money laundering and financial irregularities
- Youth Protection: Safeguarding young people from gambling-related harm
- National Security: Addressing concerns about data security and foreign influence
Conclusion
The ban on My11Circle and similar platforms represents a watershed moment for India’s digital gaming industry. While the immediate impact is severe for both operators and users, the long-term implications will depend on legal challenges, regulatory clarifications, and industry adaptation.
Users must prioritize compliance with the new law while exploring legitimate alternatives. The gaming industry, meanwhile, faces the challenge of reinventing itself within the new regulatory framework while preserving innovation and user engagement.
As the situation continues to evolve, staying informe
