Is Playing Rummy for Money on GreatRummy Legal?

Yes, playing Rummy and winning money on GreatRummy is completely legal. This is because Rummy is classified as a game of skill, and playing such games for money is protected by the Constitution of India. Games of skill, such as Rummy, are recognized as legitimate business activities under Indian law, and the right to participate in them for real money is safeguarded by Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution.

In 1968, the Supreme Court of India ruled that Rummy is a game of skill. This decision has been reaffirmed in several subsequent judgments. In 1996, the Supreme Court further clarified that: (i) games where the outcome is predominantly determined by skill, rather than chance, do not constitute gambling; and (ii) although Rummy involves an element of chance, it is primarily a game of skill, making it a “pure skill” game.

However, the laws in certain states—Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Telangana—prohibit online real money Rummy. As a result, GreatRummy does not allow players residing in or accessing the platform from these states to participate in cash Rummy games or tournaments.

Why Online Rummy Is a Game of Skill

Under Indian law, gambling or betting refers to placing wagers on games of chance. In games of chance, outcomes are primarily determined by luck, and playing such games for money is illegal.

On the other hand, games of skill are those where the outcome is primarily dependent on the player’s abilities. Playing games of skill for money is legal and considered a business activity.

Online Rummy is fully legal because it is a game of skill. When playing Rummy, players must demonstrate decision-making abilities, sharp memory, and keen observation of opponents’ moves. A player with greater skill is more likely to succeed compared to a beginner.

Legal Protections for Games of Skill in India

The Supreme Court of India, in a 1957 ruling, held that competitions—whether involving cash or otherwise—that require significant skill are categorized as commercial activities protected by Article 19(1)(g) of the Indian Constitution. Therefore, playing online Rummy for real money is legal throughout India, except in a few states (Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Telangana, Sikkim, and Nagaland) where real money online gaming is restricted.