This is an original article written and edited by Anoop Prathapan and first published on the 12th of July 2022
The decision of the State of Kerala to go ahead with proper error-free law-making to curb the booming online Rummy games in which people jeopardize their money to make some quick bucks, thereby putting their life at stake, is an embracing move. There are people who have lost lakhs of rupees of their hard-earned money and eventually have committed suicide leaving behind their families and small children. State records have twenty such cases documented so far.
Section 14(a) of the Gaming Act of the State of Kerala states - The Government may if they are satisfied that in any game the element of skill is more predominant than the element of chance, by notification in the Gazette, exempt such game from all or any of the provisions of this Act, subject to such restrictions and conditions as may be specified in the notification.
The Hon. High Court of Kerala lifted the State ban inflicted on online Rummy in 2/2021 stating this clause - that online Rummy is just a game of skill.
But presently the state puts across the argument that when money is involved in such games, the game turns into a game of chance (of betting nature) than one of mere skills. The recommendation has been put across to the Department of Law by the State Police Chief through the Home Ministry, and a decision is pending.
As citizens of the state let us hope and pray that online betting is put to an end by Law.
Before I wrap up, let me also state this - I feel disheartened, vexed, and exasperated with leading singers Mr. Vijay Yesudas and Ms. Rimy Tomy and ace director/actor Mr. Lal for encouraging such wagering online. Such people should show minimal social obligation and stay away from intriguing offers from such low lives onto which they wriggle, just to make some easy money. Once you are a personage, you have followers who might emulate you in whatever you do, and this, unfortunately, has no exception even in the “100% literate” State. Therefore, they should utilize their popularity to promote something good to the people, society, and their ardent fans.
Perfect writing sir👏