Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), the Indian version of PUBG Mobile, has had a tumultuous journey in the Indian gaming landscape. Since its launch, BGMI has faced multiple bans and regulatory concerns, leaving players and esports professionals wondering about its legal status.
If you’re searching for answers to whether BGMI is banned in India, this detailed guide will clarify everything you need to know.
What is BGMI?
BGMI, or Battlegrounds Mobile India, is a battle royale game developed by Krafton, designed specifically for the Indian market after the ban of PUBG Mobile in September 2020. The game was launched in July 2021 as an alternative to PUBG Mobile with data privacy modifications and compliance with Indian regulations.
History of BGMI’s Ban in India
This is not the first time Indian Governamnet has announced to ban the BGMI game. Here is the list of all the events happaned related to BGMI ban in india.
1. Initial PUBG Mobile Ban (September 2020)
The Indian government banned PUBG Mobile along with 118 other Chinese apps in September 2020 under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. The ban was primarily due to data security concerns and ties with China’s Tencent Games.
2. BGMI Launch and Revival (July 2021)
Following the ban, Krafton severed ties with Tencent and launched BGMI exclusively for Indian players, ensuring compliance with Indian data laws. The game quickly became India’s most-played battle royale game.
3. BGMI’s Second Ban (July 2022)
Despite its success, BGMI was delisted from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in July 2022 under government orders. Reports suggested that the ban was due to similar national security concerns, raising questions about Krafton’s data policies and affiliations.
4. BGMI’s Return (May 2023)
After nearly 10 months of suspension, Krafton announced that BGMI would be back on May 29, 2023, under a three-month trial period with additional regulatory compliance. The game made a comeback with modified gameplay mechanics and server monitoring by the Indian government.
Is BGMI Currently Banned in India?
As of 2024, BGMI is NOT banned in India, and the game is available for download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. However, certain restrictions and government monitoring continue to apply to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations.
Key Changes in BGMI Post Unban:
- Limited Playtime: Players below 18 years have restricted gaming hours.
- Data Privacy Compliance: Krafton ensures all user data is stored in Indian servers.
- Changes in Game Mechanics: Certain elements were altered to reduce violence and addiction, such as replacing blood with green-hit effects.
- Government Supervision: The game is monitored for potential violations of Indian IT laws.
Why Was BGMI Banned in India?
Several factors contributed to BGMI’s temporary ban in India:
- Data Privacy Concerns – The Indian government has been strict about apps that potentially share user data with foreign entities.
- National Security Risks – There were allegations of BGMI’s connection with China-based Tencent Games, even though Krafton cut ties.
- Addiction and Mental Health Issues – The game was blamed for excessive screen time, violent tendencies, and gaming addiction, especially among teenagers.
- Regulatory Compliance Issues – BGMI’s policies needed to align with India’s stringent IT and data laws.
What Are the Chances of BGMI Being Banned Again?
Even though BGMI has returned to the Indian market, there is still a possibility of future restrictions if:
- The Indian government finds violations of data security policies.
- The game is linked to foreign security concerns.
- In-game violence and gaming addiction become public concerns again.
However, Krafton continues to work closely with the government to ensure full compliance, making a future ban less likely.
How Can Players Ensure BGMI Stays Unbanned?
As an active BGMI player, you can help by:
- Following game guidelines to prevent in-game toxicity.
- Not engaging in hacks or cheats, can lead to government scrutiny.
- Promoting healthy gaming habits to reduce addiction concerns.
- Staying updated on Krafton’s policies to remain compliant with Indian regulations.
Alternative Games to BGMI
For players looking for alternative battle royale games in case of another BGMI ban, here are some options:
- Call of Duty: Mobile – A fast-paced battle royale and multiplayer shooter.
- Apex Legends Mobile – A futuristic battle royale game with unique mechanics.
- New State Mobile (PUBG: New State) – Another Krafton-developed game with advanced graphics and futuristic gameplay.
- Garena Free Fire MAX – A lighter battle royale alternative with a unique set of characters and abilities.
Conclusion
To answer the question, “Is BGMI banned in India?” – No, BGMI is not currently banned, but it remains under government supervision. While the possibility of future bans exists, Krafton has taken extensive measures to comply with Indian regulations and ensure the game remains accessible to Indian players.
BGMI continues to be a dominant force in Indian esports, attracting millions of players and professional teams. As long as Krafton adheres to government policies and players follow responsible gaming habits, BGMI is likely to remain a staple in India’s gaming community.
