How Can Raina and Dhawan Be Considered Role Models?
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Synopsis
Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar raises serious concerns about former cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan's roles as role models. Following the Enforcement Directorate's action against their assets linked to illegal betting, he questions the responsibility of celebrities in promoting gambling. Can they truly inspire the youth amidst such controversies?
Key Takeaways
- Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar questions the role model status of Raina and Dhawan.
- The Enforcement Directorate has seized assets linked to illegal betting.
- Betting addiction is becoming a significant issue among youth.
- Public figures must be accountable for their endorsements.
- Society needs to prioritize positive influences for the younger generation.
Hyderabad, Nov 7 (NationPress) V. C. Sajjanar, the Police Commissioner of Hyderabad, expressed his astonishment over how former Indian cricket stars Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan can be viewed as role models.
The IPS officer, recognized for his stringent actions against betting applications, criticized the two cricketers after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized their assets totaling Rs 11.14 crore amid an investigation linked to betting platforms.
“What type of celebrities are these individuals?” the Police Commissioner questioned in a post on X.
He pondered how such figures, who even take advantage of their fan base, can be considered role models.
“Due to the addiction to the betting epidemic, numerous young lives are being ruined by their own hands. Thousands have taken their own lives. Are these individuals not accountable for this, as they have promoted the betting scourge that is ravaging our society?” Sajjanar articulated.
“Share positive messages for the betterment of society and guide the youth towards success. That’s essential, but do not mislead your admirers, leading them to despair,” he further remarked.
On Thursday, the ED attached mutual fund investments worth Rs 6.64 crore in Raina's name, alongside an immovable asset valued at Rs 4.5 crore owned by Dhawan.
This action is part of a broader investigation into illegal offshore betting platforms, including 1xBet and its affiliate brands 1xBat and 1xBat Sporting Lines. The inquiry is based on multiple FIRs lodged by various state police agencies.
Accusations suggest that these entities were running unauthorized online betting and gambling services aimed at Indian users. The ED revealed that both Raina and Dhawan entered endorsement agreements with foreign firms promoting 1xBet's affiliates.
Sajjanar, a 1996-batch IPS officer, has spearheaded a campaign against online betting and gambling applications, equating them to an organized mafia.
Previously, while he served as Managing Director of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC), he advocated for holding celebrities and influencers accountable for endorsing betting applications.
His campaign resulted in police action against several celebrities, including social media influencers, for promoting betting applications.
According to Sajjanar, celebrities and social media influencers play a direct role in promoting betting applications, as individuals often sign up based on the trust they place in these public figures.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial to evaluate the responsibility of public figures. The concerns raised by Commissioner Sajjanar about the impact of celebrity endorsements in the betting landscape warrant serious attention. Society looks up to these figures, and it is vital they promote positive values rather than contribute to harmful trends.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions were taken by the Enforcement Directorate?
The Enforcement Directorate attached assets worth Rs 11.14 crore belonging to Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan as part of an investigation into illegal betting platforms.
Why did the Police Commissioner criticize Raina and Dhawan?
Commissioner Sajjanar criticized them for being role models while promoting a betting culture that harms youth, leading to addiction and even suicides.
What is the implication of this scandal for young fans?
This scandal raises concerns about the influence of celebrities on young fans and the potential dangers of promoting betting, which can lead to addiction and life-altering consequences.
