Poker is globally acknowledged as a game that combines strategy, intelligence, and mental acuity. Experts across various disciplines — including statisticians, economists, and chess grandmasters — often regard poker as a game of skill rather than one of pure chance.
Legal Status of Poker in India
In India, many states distinguish between “games of skill” or “games of mere skill” and gambling activities. However, poker faces legal restrictions in certain states, including Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Nagaland, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Telangana.
Supreme Court Rulings and Legal Precedents
A landmark Supreme Court decision in 1996 reaffirmed its earlier 1967 judgment, which recognized that games involving substantial skill qualify as “games of mere skill.” Consequently, games like poker and horse racing were declared skill-based and not classified as gambling.
Further, multiple Supreme Court rulings have confirmed that offering and playing skill-based games is a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution, and such games cannot be banned outright.
High Courts in Karnataka and Calcutta have also ruled that law enforcement cannot interfere in poker games, thereby reinforcing poker’s legality in their respective jurisdictions.
Legal and Compliant
Under the current legal framework, online poker is legal across most of India, with the exception of the aforementioned restricted states. Legal experts widely agree that as long as poker is played as a game of skill, it does not fall under the purview of gambling laws.
Compliance and Regulation
Our platform fully complies with all applicable Indian laws related to skill-based gaming. We strictly adhere to rulings from courts and directions issued by regulatory authorities at both state and national levels.
As legal interpretations and policies continue to evolve, we remain proactive. Our legal team consistently monitors developments to ensure full compliance and to advocate for clearer regulations in the skill gaming industry.
We strongly encourage players to review the legal status of poker in their respective states before participating in real-money games.
State-wise Restrictions
Due to specific legal frameworks in place, players from Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Odisha, Nagaland, Tamil Nadu, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Telangana are currently not permitted to engage in real-money poker games on our platform.
Important Notice
This website offers skill-based games such as poker and rummy, which are strictly intended for individuals 18 years of age or older. Please be aware that these games involve financial risk. We encourage all players to play responsibly and within their means.