Meerut, Aug. 27 -- Deobandi scholar and patron of Jamiat Dawatul Muslimeen, Maulana Qari Ishaq Gora, has issued a warning to Muslims against the growing trend of online gaming, terming it a form of gambling as per Islam. He urged the community to stay away from such practices, stressing that they are forbidden (haram) and lead to moral and financial ruin.

In a video message, Maulana Ishaq Gora expressed concern over the spread of what he described as a "dangerous addiction" within society. "Unfortunately, not only the youth but even elderly people are increasingly engrossed in online games. These games involve betting money, where some win and others lose. In the eyes of Islam, this act clearly resembles gambling," he said.

Citing the Q...