The real-money gaming (RMG) sector in India has come to a sudden halt after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, came into effect. The new law prohibits all forms of money-based online games across the country.
This means platforms where users deposit funds to play for cash rewards, whether skill-based or chance-based, are now illegal. The move directly impacts millions of users of Dream11, Mobile Premier League (MPL), Zupee, Winzo, and My11Circle. A key question for players is whether they will be able to withdraw their wallet balances.
Yes. The companies have confirmed that deposits and winnings remain safe and can be withdrawn, though promotional credits such as discount bonuses or gaming points will not be eligible for refunds. Each platform has announced timelines and processes to reassure players.
For players, the ban means the end of cash contests, but deposits and legitimate winnings are protected. The only funds excluded are promotional rewards, which expire as per company timelines. This provides relief for users who feared losing money after the announcement.
The Online Gaming Ban has redrawn the landscape for India’s RMG industry. While popular platforms such as Dream11, MPL, Zupee, Winzo, and My11Circle have halted money-based contests, they have also ensured that user wallet balances are refunded. Players can withdraw deposits and winnings, but bonus credits will lapse. Going forward, the industry is expected to explore free-to-play and engagement-driven formats under the new regulatory framework.
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Published on: Aug 26, 2025, 6:18 PM IST
Akshay Shivalkar
Akshay Shivalkar is a financial content specialist who strategises and creates SEO-optimised content on the stock market, mutual funds, and other investment products. With experience in fintech and mutual funds, he simplifies complex financial concepts to help investors make informed decisions through his writing.
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