Poker is celebrated globally as a game that demands strategy, intelligence, psychological strength, and quick decision-making. Recognized by respected professionals such as statisticians, economists, and chess grandmasters, poker is widely acknowledged as a game of skill rather than chance. In India, most states legally distinguish “games of skill” or “games of mere skill” from gambling, though there are notable exceptions, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, Telangana, Nagaland, and Sikkim.
Legal Framework in India
The legal recognition of skill-based games in India has evolved through several key judicial rulings. In a landmark 1996 Supreme Court judgment, the court reaffirmed its earlier 1967 decision, asserting that games involving a substantial degree of skill fall under the definition of “games of mere skill.” This classification distinguishes them from games of chance, thus removing them from the ambit of gambling laws.
Games such as poker and even horse racing were specifically identified as skill-based activities. The court ruled that conducting or playing such games constitutes a legitimate business protected under Article 19(1)(g) of the Indian Constitution, which safeguards the right to practice any profession or trade.
Furthermore, High Courts in Karnataka and Calcutta have delivered rulings protecting the rights of platforms and individuals involved in poker, stating that law enforcement agencies cannot interfere with games of skill played in accordance with the law. Legal scholars and gaming industry experts broadly agree that online poker, when offered responsibly and transparently, is fully legal in most parts of India.
Compliance and Regulation
Our platform strictly adheres to all laws and judicial guidelines related to skill-based online gaming in India. We continuously monitor regulatory developments and actively cooperate with court directives, government advisories, and applicable compliance requirements. Our legal and compliance teams ensure that we not only follow the law but also contribute to setting high standards in ethical online gaming.
As the legal framework continues to evolve—with new regulations, amendments, and judgments—we stay prepared to respond to any legislative or regulatory changes. We believe that clearer gaming laws will benefit all stakeholders and promote a safe, transparent, and accountable gaming ecosystem.
To further support responsible play, we maintain robust verification systems, secure payment methods, and customer protection mechanisms. We also encourage all users to review their local and state laws before engaging in any real-money gaming.
State Restrictions
While poker is legal in most Indian states, certain states have stricter gambling laws that also apply to online platforms. Currently, players from the following states are prohibited from participating in real-money poker games on our platform:
- Andhra Pradesh
- Assam
- Tamil Nadu
- Odisha
- Telangana
- Nagaland
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Sikkim
We advise residents of these states to refrain from registering or participating in any monetary contests or tournaments on our website.
Important Notice for Players
This platform offers skill-based games such as Rummy and Poker, which are intended strictly for individuals who are 18 years of age or older. These games may involve the risk of financial loss. We strongly advise all users to play responsibly, set deposit limits, and avoid chasing losses. Gaming should always be for entertainment, not a source of income or financial pressure.
If you are passionate about poker and wish to test your skills in a secure, fair, and legally compliant environment, our platform offers the ideal destination. However, always ensure that you are compliant with the laws applicable in your specific jurisdiction before engaging in real-money play.