<h1>Lower house passes law banning paid online games, ads and bank transfers; offences punishable by up to three years, fines</h1> The lower house passed legislation banning online games played for money to address addiction, money-laundering and fraud; the law also prohibits related advertising and bars banks and financial institutions from facilitating transfers for such games. The bill defines online money games as those requiring a monetary deposit with expectation of monetary or other gain, and outlaws online betting and gambling activities including fantasy sports, poker, rummy and online lotteries. It was approved by voice vote amid opposition protests and must clear the upper house to become law. Violations carry up to three years' imprisonment and/or fines up to Rs 1 crore.