SC Pushes Online Gaming Law Challenge to January
The Supreme Court has said that the petitions challenging the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act (PROGA), 2025 will be heard by a three-judge Bench, postponing the matter to January 21, 2026. The court noted that questions involving the constitutional validity of a central law must be examined by a larger Bench.
Industry Seeks Urgent Hearing
Petitioners, including Head Digital Works, the parent company of the A23 gaming platform, urged the court to fast-track the case, saying the sector is facing an “unprecedented shutdown”. They argued that the law has deeply impacted operations, jobs and revenues across the online gaming industry.
Court Cites Standard Procedure
A Bench led by the Chief Justice said that when a case involves determining legislative competence—whether Parliament had the authority to enact a particular law—the matter is normally assigned to a three-judge Bench. This ensures a detailed examination of constitutional questions.
Core Issues Raised by Petitioners
Petitioners contend that PROGA wrongly classifies games of skill as gambling and infringes upon the right to carry on trade or business. They also argue that regulation of online gaming may fall within the legislative domain of states, not the Union government, raising questions of federal authority.
Matter to Be Heard in 2026
With the next hearing scheduled for January, the law remains in force, extending uncertainty for gaming operators and players. The January session is expected to include detailed submissions from both sides.
