Indian Government Holds Talks With Children, Parents, and Gamers to Discuss the Proposed Changes to IT Rules 2021

Earlier this month, the Government of India shared draft amendments to Information Technology Rules, 2021, with regards to online gaming.

The new proposal requires online gaming intermediaries to observe their due diligence, by making sure that they conform with Indian laws when it comes to betting and gambling.

The draft proposal features the introduction of a new self-regulatory body (SRO), which will oversee these intermediaries with a new self-regulation process. And once their registration has been approved, online games will need to showcase the SRO mark to users. Plus, the self-regulatory body will also “resolve complaints through a grievance redressal mechanism.”

.@GoI_MeitY today held a consultation with children, parents, teachers, gamers, and safety and trust organizations on the proposed amendments to the #ITRules2021 in relation to #OnlineGaming. #DigitalIndia @Rajeev_GoI #DigitalIndiaDialogues pic.twitter.com/erqqCCXEdH

— Ministry of Electronics & IT (@GoI_MeitY) January 11, 2023

At the moment, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has unveiled the amendments for the general public to view and discuss the new changes. Moreover, the MeitY is also looking to hear feedback from concerned citizens regarding these changes.

And the discussions amongst the MeitY continue as well, as the Ministry recently held talks with various stakeholders regarding the draft amendments to the IT Rules, 2021. Some of the stakeholders included “children, parents, teachers, gamers, and safety and trust organizations,” who had discussions with MeitY and its various members such as Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Interested citizens can voice their opinion about the amendments by submitting feedback to MeitY by January 17.