Are Indians who are hard-up for money looking at illegal online games for financial relief?
India's online gaming boom, fueled by economic insecurity and stagnant wages, is pushing vulnerable populations towards "fast cash" games. The ban on money games has inadvertently driven users to risky, unregulated offshore platforms, resulting in financial ruin and suicides. Authors argue this isn't merely a law-and-order issue but a public health and behavioral challenge. They advocate for comprehensive empirical studies, an updated social security system, and policies that address basic needs and mental health instead of just building prohibitive barriers. The digital future requires responsible governance and citizen involvement.
LiveMint · Angana Parashar Sarma, Arpita Mukherjee · Jun 18, 2026 at 7:00 AM