Did ED Question Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan Over His Endorsement of an 'Illegal' Betting App?
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Synopsis
Shikhar Dhawan, former cricketer, faces serious allegations as the ED questions him about his ties to the controversial betting app, 1xBet. This investigation uncovers a broader issue of illegal betting and money laundering in India, raising questions about celebrity endorsements and accountability in the gaming industry.
Key Takeaways
- Shikhar Dhawan faced questioning by the ED regarding his connection to a controversial betting app.
- The app, 1xBet, is linked to allegations of money laundering.
- Investigations are ongoing into the legality of online betting in India.
- Recent legislation aims to regulate the online gaming sector.
- The scrutiny of celebrities endorsing gambling platforms is increasing.
New Delhi, Aug 4 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan was interrogated by the ED on Thursday regarding alleged money laundering associated with an 'unauthorized' gaming application that he endorsed in advertisements, as stated by an official.
The former Team India opener was called in by the investigative agency to clarify details of his advertising contract with the app named 1xBet, according to the official.
Dhawan reportedly endured several hours of questioning after arriving before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials at approximately 11 a.m.
In addition to Dhawan, former cricketer Suresh Raina was also recently interrogated by the ED concerning the 1xBet case.
Dhawan, who owns the South Delhi Superstarz team in the Delhi Premier League, retired from all formats of cricket in August of last year after a career spanning more than a decade. He played a total of 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, accumulating 2315, 6793, and 1579 runs, respectively, across these formats.
The 1xBet India website claims that the company provides numerous sports betting options to its registered users. It lists offerings such as the Aviator Game Online, cricket betting lines, and online casino slots, accepting bets via Telegram payments on sports such as football, basketball, cricket, tennis, and e-sports.
This app's parent company is based in Cyprus and ranks among the largest online casinos globally. The company has been known to sponsor football teams in both Spain and France.
After investigations into alleged financial misconduct, the company was compelled to cease operations in the UK, US, Russia, Spain, and France.
The controversy surrounding Dhawan’s connection to an illegal app echoes the uproar caused last year by the Mahadev Satta App, which enlisted celebrities such as actors Ranbir Kapoor, Boman Irani, Hina Khan, and Shraddha Kapoor.
The ED initiated an investigation into the app following an extravagant reception hosted by one of the founders of the gambling platform in the UAE. This inquiry also exposed a ₹5,000 crore hawala racket operating between the UAE and Pakistan.
Last month, the Parliament passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which aims to regulate the online gaming and e-sports industry while prohibiting all online games involving monetary transactions.
According to government statistics, a total of 1,524 orders banning gambling platforms were issued from 2022 through June 2025.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with balanced reporting. The scrutiny surrounding Shikhar Dhawan highlights the pressing issues of accountability in celebrity endorsements and the need for stringent regulations in the gaming industry. With the recent passing of the Online Gaming Bill, this case underscores the commitment to a safer online gaming environment for the public.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED to question Shikhar Dhawan?
The Enforcement Directorate questioned Shikhar Dhawan due to his endorsement of the unauthorized betting app 1xBet, which is linked to alleged money laundering activities.
What is 1xBet?
1xBet is an online betting platform that offers various gaming options, including sports betting and casino games, and is based in Cyprus.
What are the implications of this investigation?
The investigation raises serious concerns about the legality of online betting in India and highlights the responsibilities of public figures in endorsing such platforms.
How many gambling platforms have been banned in India recently?
According to government data, 1,524 orders banning gambling platforms were issued between 2022 and June 2025.
What recent legislation was passed regarding online gaming?
The Parliament recently passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, aimed at regulating the online gaming industry and prohibiting money-based games.
