#recreational clubs

Karnataka High Court holds that registered recreational clubs offering skill-based games (e.g., carom, chess, rummy) are not 'places of public entertainment' under the Karnataka Police Act and cannot be compelled to obtain police licenses. The ruling clarifies that police powers do not extend to lawful recreational activities compliant with CCTV, identity verification, and no-stakes conditions.

Karnataka High Court rules that registered recreational clubs conducting member-only activities are exempt from licensing under the Karnataka Police Act, 1963. The judgment imposes strict conditions to prevent unlawful conduct, balancing regulatory oversight with the fundamental right to association.

Madras High Court rules that police interference in registered recreational clubs playing Rummy or Carom Board violates the right to association under Article 19(1)(c) unless there is concrete evidence of gambling. The judgment reinforces that mere suspicion does not justify infringement of constitutional freedoms, setting a precedent for protecting lawful recreational activities.