YONO Games & Legal Compliance in India

Understanding India’s Legal Framework for Skill-Based Games

The Supreme Court of India has played a pivotal role in defining the legal landscape for skill-based games, consistently affirming their legitimacy under Indian law.

Games of Skill Classification

In landmark judgments delivered in 1967 and again in 1996, the Court clarified that games which require substantial skill, strategy, and mental acumen fall under the category of “games of mere skill,” rather than games of chance. This distinction is crucial, as it separates legally recognized skill-based gaming from gambling activities, which are subject to stricter restrictions.

Recognition of Horse-Race Betting

The Court explicitly acknowledged that horse-race betting qualifies as a lawful, skill-oriented activity. Unlike games of pure chance, horse racing demands strategic decision-making and knowledge, further reinforcing the legal acceptance of skill-driven gaming.

Foundation for Modern Gaming Laws

These landmark rulings form the cornerstone of India’s contemporary gaming regulations, providing legal clarity for skill-based platforms such as Rummy, Poker, and other competitive games. They ensure that players and operators engaging in games of skill can do so with confidence, transparency, and legal protection.

Constitutional Protection

Multiple Supreme Court decisions confirm that engaging in or offering skill-based games is protected under the Constitution of India. This protection prevents blanket bans on such activities and provides legal certainty for platforms that comply with skill-based classifications.

High Court Judgments

Several High Courts have reinforced this position:

• The Karnataka High Court and
• The Calcutta High Court

Both ruled that law enforcement authorities cannot interfere with legitimate skill-based games, including poker. These decisions further strengthen the legal standing and acceptance of skill-based online gaming in India.

Legal Consensus

Leading legal experts agree that online skill-based games such as Rummy and Poker are legal in India, provided platforms comply with applicable state laws and operational guidelines.

YONO Games’ Commitment to Legal Compliance

At YONO Games, operating within the law is a core principle. We maintain a robust compliance framework to ensure transparency, fairness, and player trust. Players are strongly encouraged to review their local state regulations before participating, especially if they are uncertain about eligibility.

Regulatory Cooperation

Active collaboration with government bodies, courts, and regulatory authorities

Continuous Legal Monitoring

Our legal team tracks updates in Indian gaming laws in real time

Strict Compliance Standards

All platform operations adhere to applicable legal boundaries

Player Education

Clear guidance is provided to help users understand legal requirements and participate responsibly

Player Eligibility & Restricted States

Due to state-specific regulations, residents of the following states are not permitted to participate in real-money skill-based games (including Rummy and Poker) on YONO Games:

• Andhra Pradesh
• Assam
• Odisha
• Nagaland
• Tamil Nadu
• Arunachal Pradesh
• Sikkim
• Telangana

Access is restricted in these regions to ensure full legal compliance.

Important Notices for Players

YONO Games is committed to maintaining a safe, lawful, and responsible gaming environment for all eligible users.

• Participation is strictly limited to individuals 18 years of age or older
• All games involve financial risk, and losses are possible
• Responsible gaming is strongly encouraged, players should only invest what they can afford to lose