Are Actors Prakash Raj and Vijay Deverakonda Summoned by ED Over Betting Apps?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned four prominent actors, including Rana Daggubati and Vijay Deverakonda, over alleged associations with illegal betting apps. The investigation is a response to serious allegations and could impact the careers of these celebrities as they navigate legal scrutiny. Stay tuned as this story unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Four prominent actors have been summoned by the ED.
- The case revolves around alleged promotion of illegal betting apps.
- The investigation is part of a broader crackdown on illegal gambling.
- Many celebrities have previously faced legal actions regarding these endorsements.
- Actors maintain that they are not involved in promoting illegal activities.
Hyderabad, July 21 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate has called upon actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi to present themselves regarding the investigation into their alleged promotion of illegal betting applications.
As the inquiry intensifies into this recently registered case, the ED has issued notices to these prominent figures.
The central agency has requested Rana Daggubati to appear on July 23, while Prakash Raj is expected on July 30.
Vijay Deverakonda is summoned for August 6, and Manchu Lakshmi has been directed to attend on August 13.
These four actors are part of a group of 29 celebrities that were implicated by the ED on July 10 for their alleged endorsements of illegal betting platforms.
The central agency has initiated an ECIR against these 29 individuals, including actors, influencers, and YouTubers, for purportedly promoting illegal gambling operations, which is against the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
This investigation, conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, is based on five FIRs lodged in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Actors such as Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Nidhi Agarwal, Pranitha Subhash, and Manchu Lakshmi are among those targeted by the ED.
Additionally, names of various television actors, hosts, and social media influencers, including Sreemukhi, Shyamala, Varshini Sounderajan, and others, also appear in this list.
Most of these individuals had previously been charged by Hyderabad and Cyberabad Police, with FIRs filed at Panjagutta, Miyapur, Cyberabad, Suryapet, and Visakhapatnam police stations.
The ED suspects that endorsements for platforms like Junglee Rummy, A23, JeetWin, Parimatch, Lotus365, and others have facilitated the laundering of substantial funds through paid promotions.
When some of these actors were charged by the police, they denied any misconduct, asserting that they had terminated contracts due to ethical concerns.
Earlier this year in March, Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, and others faced accusations from Cyberabad Police for allegedly endorsing betting applications.
They maintained their stance, clarifying that they do not support any illegal applications.
Rana Daggubati and Vijay Deverakonda asserted that their endorsements were limited to legally sanctioned online skill games, while Prakash Raj stated that he refrained from renewing a contract for an app back in 2017 after realizing it was inappropriate.
Point of View
This development highlights the increasing scrutiny of celebrities and their endorsements in the digital age. The Enforcement Directorate's actions reflect a broader push against illegal gambling activities, ensuring that public figures are held accountable for their endorsements. It is crucial for the entertainment industry to maintain ethical standards, especially in areas as sensitive as gambling.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED to summon these actors?
The Enforcement Directorate summoned these actors due to their alleged involvement in promoting illegal betting apps, which is being investigated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
What are the potential consequences for the actors?
If found guilty, the actors could face legal repercussions including fines and restrictions on their endorsements, which may impact their careers.
Have the actors responded to these allegations?
Yes, several actors have denied any wrongdoing, claiming they only promoted legally sanctioned games and have previously ended contracts over ethical concerns.
How many celebrities are involved in this case?
A total of 29 celebrities, including actors, influencers, and YouTubers, have been implicated in this investigation.
What illegal activities are being investigated?
The investigation focuses on the alleged promotion of illegal betting platforms, which contravenes the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
