The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned prominent South Indian actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Lakshmi Manchu for questioning in connection with a money laundering case related to the promotion of illegal online betting platforms. The probe agency alleges that these actors endorsed online betting apps that generated substantial "illicit" funds.
The ED has registered a case against 29 individuals, including the four actors, other celebrities, social media influencers, and YouTubers, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The agency's action follows multiple FIRs lodged across several states concerning violations of the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
Rana Daggubati is scheduled to appear for questioning on July 23, Prakash Raj on July 30, Vijay Deverakonda on August 6, and Lakshmi Manchu on August 13. The ED will record their statements under the PMLA.
The ED suspects that the celebrities promoted betting platforms like Junglee Rummy, A23, JeetWin, Parimatch, and Lotus365, which allegedly funneled large sums of money through illegal betting and gambling. The agency is scrutinizing financial transactions and digital trails linked to the individuals named in the case.
According to an FIR accessed by India Today TV, the actors and media influencers face charges under various sections, including the Bharat Nyay Sanhita, the Telangana State Gaming Act (TSGA), and the Information Technology Act, related to fraudulent activity, illegal promotion of gaming, and online deception.
In response to the allegations, Prakash Raj clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that he had promoted a gaming app in 2016 but withdrew in 2017 after realizing it was inappropriate, and has not promoted any gaming applications since then. Rana Daggubati stated that his endorsement for a skill-based gaming platform ended in 2017 and was restricted to legally permitted regions, with his legal team ensuring compliance with the Supreme Court's position on skill-based games.
The ED is also investigating the role of Meta and Google regarding advertisements for illegal betting platforms. Executives from both companies were summoned but sought more time to gather information and documents. They are now expected to appear before the ED on July 28. The agency is probing multiple platforms hosting illegal betting and gambling links, including advertisements on social media and app stores.