Chapter-4

Authority on Online gaming

Section 8: Establishment of an Authority

(1) The Central Government may, by notification, constitute an Authority consisting of a Chairperson and such number of other Members or designate any existing Authority or Authorities or any agency to assist it in performing any of the functions under this Act.

(2) The Central Government may vest the Authority or agency, as the case may be, with all or any of the following powers, namely: ––

(a) to determine, on the receipt of an application from any person offering an online game or on suo motu basis, whether a particular online game is an online money game or otherwise, after making such inquiry as it deems necessary;

(b) to recognise, categorise and register online games i n such manner as may be prescribed; and

(c) such other powers and functions as may be prescribed.Recognition and development of online social games . Prohibition of online money game and online money gaming service. Prohibition of advertisement related to online money game. Prohibition of transfer of fund. 

(3) Every person offering, organising or facilitating any online game shall comply with the directions, orders, guidelines or codes of practice issued by the Central Government or the Authority or agency in discharge of their functions under this Act.

(4) The Central Government may prescribe the following, namely: ––

(a) composition and qualification for appointment of Chairperson and Members;

(b) salary, allowances payable to them and their term of office;

(c) disqualification for appointment and continuation as Chairperson and Members;

(d) resignation by Members and filling of vacancy;

(e) proceedings of the Authority;

(f) officers and employees of the Authority;

(g) powers to be exercised by the Chairperson;

(h) handling of complaints and grievances related to online games including manner of inquiry; and

(i) any other matter to further the objective of this Act.

(5) The Authority or agency, as the case may be, may respond to the complaints relating to online games which are prejudicial to the interests of users, forwarded either in writing or in electronic mode.

(Continued through  to Chapter 5)