Did ED Interrogate Actor Rana Daggubati for Hours Over Betting Apps?
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Synopsis
In a crucial investigation, Enforcement Directorate officials grilled Tollywood star Rana Daggubati for nearly four hours regarding his alleged involvement with illegal betting applications. As the third celebrity to be questioned, Rana's case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of celebrity endorsements in the gambling industry. Stay tuned for the latest updates.
Key Takeaways
- Enforcement Directorate questioned Rana Daggubati for four hours.
- Rana is the third actor to face inquiry in this investigation.
- 29 celebrities are being scrutinized for endorsing illegal betting apps.
- The probe is conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
- Rana and others claim to have endorsed only legal gaming platforms.
Hyderabad, Aug 11 (NationPress) In a significant development, Enforcement Directorate officials interrogated Tollywood actor Rana Daggubati for close to four hours on Monday concerning the alleged endorsement of illicit betting applications. The actor departed the ED's regional office in Basheerbagh around 3 p.m.
The ED recorded Rana's statement and collected information regarding his endorsement contract with the concerned company along with the financial dealings involved.
Rana chose not to speak to the media as he left the ED premises.
He became the third actor to be summoned in this matter, following Vijay Deverakonda and Prakash Raj, who had previously appeared before the agency.
Having received a notice to appear on July 23, Rana was unable to attend due to a film shoot, prompting him to request an alternate date from the ED.
Last month, the ED summoned Rana alongside Prakash Raj, Vijay, and Manchu Lakshmi regarding this case.
Prakash Raj was questioned on July 30 while Vijay was interrogated on August 6.
Manchu has been instructed to appear on August 13.
The four actors are part of a larger group of 29 celebrities who were flagged by the ED on July 10 for allegedly endorsing illegal betting platforms.
The central agency has initiated an ECIR against these 29 actors, influencers, and YouTubers for purportedly promoting gambling platforms, which contravenes the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
This investigation, conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, stems from five FIRs filed in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
After being questioned on August 6, Vijay asserted that he was called in to discuss a gaming app he had endorsed. He insisted that the gaming app was legal, sanctioned by the government, and licensed as a business. He provided the ED with details about his account, the company, and financial transactions.
Prakash Raj informed the ED officials on July 30 that he did not receive any payment for a past advertisement he had done for a betting app in 2016. He mentioned that he didn’t accept payment due to his personal principles, acknowledging that he realized later that endorsing such an app was a mistake.
Earlier this year, Vijay, Rana, Prakash Raj, and others were booked by Cyberabad police for allegedly supporting betting apps.
Both Rana and Vijay confirmed that their endorsements were limited to legally permissible online skill-based games.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial to approach this matter with a balanced perspective. The ongoing investigations into celebrity endorsements of betting apps highlight serious concerns surrounding legality and ethics. It is essential to uphold accountability while also recognizing the difference between legal gaming and illicit activities. Our reporting will continue to reflect these complexities.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind Rana Daggubati's questioning?
Rana Daggubati was questioned by the ED regarding his alleged endorsement of illegal betting apps, which has raised concerns under the Public Gambling Act.
Who else has been questioned in this case?
Vijay Deverakonda and Prakash Raj are among the other actors who have been questioned by the ED regarding their endorsements of betting applications.
What are the legal implications for endorsing betting apps?
Endorsing illegal betting apps can lead to serious legal repercussions, as it violates the Public Gambling Act and is subject to investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
How did Rana Daggubati respond to the media after questioning?
Rana chose not to address the media as he left the ED office following his questioning.
What is the broader context of this investigation?
The investigation is part of a larger probe into 29 celebrities who are accused of promoting illegal betting platforms, prompting serious legal scrutiny.
