Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw firmly countered Karur Congress MP S. Jothimani in Parliament after she attempted to mock the central government by claiming it was “known for no data.” Vaishnaw pointed out that if there was a lack of data, the responsibility lay with the state governments, as they are required to collect and provide such information. His response turned the tables on Jothimani during the ongoing Budget Session on 19 March 2025.
Debate Over Online Gambling Regulation
The discussion arose when MP S. Jothimani brought up the issue of banning online gambling, emphasizing its devastating consequences, particularly in Tamil Nadu. She cited alarming statistics, mentioning that around 48 people in the state had died due to gambling addiction and suicide, including minors as young as 13 and 14. She also referenced a recent case of a 17-year-old boy who had taken his own life.
Jothimani highlighted that the Tamil Nadu government had taken proactive steps by unanimously passing a bill to ban online gambling. However, she stressed that internet-based gambling could not be effectively contained within state boundaries, as advertisements for gambling platforms continued to flow freely. She urged the central government to intervene, questioning how it was making a legal distinction between games of skill and games of chance.
Minister Vaishnaw’s Response
Addressing the issue, Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledged the complexity of the matter, explaining that betting and gambling fall under Entry 34 of the State List in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. However, online gaming platforms, being digital intermediaries, come under the purview of the central government. He outlined the center’s contributions, including the establishment of well-defined intermediary rules and strict legal provisions under Section 112(1) of the IT Act, which prescribes punishments of up to seven years for unauthorized gambling activities.
Vaishnaw advised Jothimani to work alongside the Tamil Nadu government to enforce laws under both state and central jurisdiction. He emphasized that action could be taken under the Tamil Nadu legislation as well as central regulations where applicable.
Jothimani’s Counter and Vaishnaw’s Clarification
Despite the minister’s explanation, Jothimani remained critical, arguing that suicides linked to gambling continued even after the state government’s efforts. She also expressed disappointment over Vaishnaw’s response regarding suicide data, accusing the government of failing to maintain proper records. She urged the formation of a dedicated committee to systematically collect and analyze data on gambling-related suicides nationwide. Furthermore, she questioned why the government had not imposed an outright ban on online gambling until a clear legal distinction between skill-based and chance-based gaming was established.
Karur Congress MP Jothimani said, “I understand that, as you said, this is very complex and it’s not that easy to bring anything very fast. I was also shocked to see that your answer regarding the suicide – you’re blaming NCRB that there is no data. This government is known for having no data, but at least I request you to form a committee or something to access the data across all states regarding suicide and its impact. Since you are not able to make a distinction, until the government brings a law, why not ban online games and apps in eternity.”
Vaishnaw swiftly clarified that the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data referenced by the central government is compiled based on reports submitted by state governments. He stressed that if Tamil Nadu’s government had provided accurate data, it would be reflected in national records. Concluding his remarks, he urged Jothimani to understand the constitutional framework that assigns responsibilities to different levels of government before making sweeping criticisms. He also reminded her that parliamentary discussions should be conducted responsibly and within the constitutional framework.
Ashwini Vaishnaw said, “Honorable member must please understand that NCRB data is basically the data given by the state governments. So, if your state government has provided the right data, then it will be reflected properly in the state. Therefore, Honorable Speaker sir, I kindly request The Honorable member to look at the entire structure of our polity, the structure by which the Constitution assigns responsibilities to different parts of the government, and then make such comments. This is a very responsible forum, as it is the house of the people, and any comments should be within the framework of the Constitution.”
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.