The Centre has recently responded to a petition challenging IT Amendments related to online gaming. In its response, the Centre highlights the importance of providing safeguards for children and youth against various harms in the online gaming industry. This article delves into the details of the Centre's response and the measures taken to regulate online gaming responsibly.
Safeguards for Children and Youth
Learn about the measures taken to protect children and youth in online gaming.
The Centre's response to the petition highlights the importance of providing safeguards for children and youth in the online gaming industry. The amendments to the IT Rules, 2021, aim to protect vulnerable individuals from various harms such as psychological injury, gaming addiction, financial loss, and fraud.
Through the formation of the Inter-Ministerial Task Force for Online Gaming Regulation (IMTF), extensive consultations were conducted with state governments, industry stakeholders, legal experts, psychologists, educationists, and gamers. The insights gathered from these consultations have played a crucial role in developing a central law for online gaming.
By mandating due diligence procedures for online gaming intermediaries throughout India, the Centre aims to regulate the industry responsibly while ensuring the safety and well-being of children and youth.
Challenging the Constitutional and Legislative Validity
Explore the arguments presented in the petition challenging the constitutional and legislative validity of the IT Amendments.
The petition filed by the Social Organisation for Creating Humanity (SOCH) challenges the classification of online gaming platforms as 'intermediaries' under the IT Act, 2000. The petitioner argues that online gaming platforms do not fall under this category as defined by the Act.
Furthermore, the petitioner contends that the IT Amendment Rules 2023 exceed the legislative competence of the Union government. The power to enact laws on gambling and betting, including online gaming, lies with state legislatures according to the petitioner.
The plea emphasizes the need for effective control and regulation of online games and gambling activities, with a mechanism that complies with constitutional and legislative provisions.
The Role of Due Diligence and Verification Processes
Understand the significance of due diligence and verification processes in protecting vulnerable individuals in online gaming.
The IT Amendment Rules 2023 impose various due diligence requirements and compliances on online gaming intermediaries. These processes play a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, especially children and youth, from potential harms.
Ensuring Responsible Gaming Practices
By implementing due diligence procedures, online gaming platforms can identify and verify the age and identity of their users. This helps prevent underage individuals from accessing and engaging in online gaming activities.
Preventing Gaming Addiction and Psychological Injury
The due diligence and verification processes also contribute to mitigating gaming addiction and psychological injury. By monitoring user behavior and implementing responsible gaming practices, online gaming platforms can intervene and provide necessary support to individuals at risk.
Protecting Against Financial Loss and Fraud
Through due diligence, online gaming intermediaries can establish secure payment systems and implement measures to prevent financial loss and fraud. This protects users from potential scams and ensures a safe gaming environment.