IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB & HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH ***

CWP-9309-2026 Date of Decision: 27.03.2026 Lovish Chugh .... Petitioner Versus State of Punjab and another .... Respondents CORAM: HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE JASGURPREET SINGH PURI Present: Mr. Roopak Bansal, Advocate, for the petitioner.

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JASGURPREET SINGH PURI , J . (ORAL)

1. The present writ petition has been filed under Articles 226/227 of the Constitution of India for issuance of a writ in the nature of Mandamus directing the respondents to decide the representation dated 21.02.2026 (Annexure P-3) and to grant the necessary licence/permit to the petitioner for establishing a Poker Gaming Arena.

2. Learned counsel for the petitioner submitted that the petitioner has moved a representation to the Chief Secretary, Government of Punjab vide Annexure P-3 dated 21.02.2026 (although wrongly stated as 21.02.2025 but the same was given on 21.02.2026, which is clear from the receipt of speed post attached along with the aforesaid representation) and the relief claimed from the Chief Secretary as so stated in the prayer clause is with regard to seeking clarification on the status of Poker Gaming Arena under the Public Gambling Act, 1867 and