In a landmark judgment, the Allahabad High Court has ruled that poker and rummy are games of skill and not gambling. The court’s decision comes as a major victory for players and enthusiasts of these card games, who have long argued that their games require a high level of skill, strategy, and intelligence to succeed.
The High Court’s judgment was delivered in response to a petition filed by the Indian Poker Association (IPA), challenging the classification of poker and rummy as forms of gambling under the Public Gambling Act, 1867. The IPA argued that these games involve a substantial degree of skill and therefore should not be considered games of chance or luck.
After carefully examining the arguments presented by both parties, a division bench of the High Court consisting of Justice SK Gupta and Justice Pankaj Bhatia, agreed with the IPA’s contention that poker and rummy are indeed games of skill. The court pointed out that unlike games of chance, such as roulette or slot machines, poker and rummy require players to make strategic decisions, analyze their opponents’ moves, and adapt their gameplay accordingly.
The judgment recognized that skilled players can consistently outperform novices in these games, indicating that success is not solely dependent on luck. The court also noted that professional poker players often participate in international tournaments and competitions, further highlighting the significance of skill in these games.
The High Court’s ruling has significant implications for the legal status of poker and rummy in India. By categorizing these games as games of skill rather than gambling, the court has paved the way for their regulation and legalization in the country. This decision is likely to encourage more players to participate in these games, attracting investment and fostering growth in the online gaming industry.
The judgment has been welcomed by the gaming community, with many enthusiasts expressing their relief and satisfaction at the court’s recognition of the skill involved in poker and rummy. Players are hopeful that this ruling will help dispel misconceptions about these games and promote a more positive and inclusive view of skill-based gaming.
Overall, the Allahabad High Court’s decision marks a significant milestone in the ongoing debate over the legal status of poker and rummy in India. By affirming their status as games of skill, the court has provided clarity and validation to players and operators in the gaming industry, setting a precedent for future legal challenges and discussions on this issue.
