Why Were Urvashi Rautela and Ex-Trinamool MP Mimi Chakraborty Summoned by ED?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned former Trinamool Congress MP Mimi Chakraborty and actress Urvashi Rautela in connection with a money laundering investigation linked to an illegal betting app. The inquiry also extends to former cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina, raising serious questions regarding the controversial world of online betting.
Key Takeaways
- Mimi Chakraborty and Urvashi Rautela summoned by ED for alleged money laundering.
- Investigation linked to illegal betting app 1xBet.
- Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina also face scrutiny from ED.
- Parliament passed a bill regulating online gaming.
- Over 1,500 orders issued to ban gambling platforms since 2022.
New Delhi, Sep 14 (NationPress) - On Sunday, former Trinamool Congress MP Mimi Chakraborty was issued a summons by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a suspected money laundering case linked to an illegal betting application. Official sources confirmed that she is required to report to the ED's headquarters in Delhi on September 15.
This case revolves around the illegal betting application 1xBet, which has previously been scrutinized by the ED, resulting in interrogations of several actresses and cricketers.
Additionally, actress Urvashi Rautela has also received a summons from the ED, and she is expected to appear at the agency's Delhi office on September 16.
Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has faced questioning from the ED regarding his alleged involvement in money laundering associated with an 'unauthorized' gaming app that he endorsed in advertisements.
The ED summoned Dhawan to clarify his advertising contract with the app 1xBet. Reports indicate that he endured several hours of questioning after presenting himself to ED officials in the national capital.
Moreover, former cricketer Suresh Raina was also interrogated by the ED concerning the 1xBet investigation.
Dhawan, who owns the South Delhi Superstarz team in the Delhi Premier League, retired from cricket in August last year after an extensive career.
The 1xBet India website claims to provide numerous sports betting options for registered users, listing games such as Aviator Game Online, cricket betting lines, and online casino slots. It accepts bets via Telegram payments on various sporting events including football, basketball, cricket, tennis, and e-sports.
Headquartered in Cyprus, this company is one of the largest online casinos globally and has sponsored numerous football teams in Spain and France. Following investigations into alleged financial irregularities, the company had to cease operations in the UK, US, Russia, Spain, and France.
Dhawan's alleged connection to this illegal app surfaces amidst the controversy stirred last year by the Mahadev Satta App, which involved celebrities like Ranbir Kapoor, Boman Irani, Hina Khan, and Shraddha Kapoor.
The ED's investigation into the app was initiated after a lavish event hosted by one of the platform's founders in the UAE, which also uncovered a Rs 5,000 crore hawala racket operating between the UAE and Pakistan.
Last month, the Parliament enacted the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 to oversee the online gaming and e-sports sector, effectively banning all online games involving money.
Government statistics reveal that from 2022 to June 2025, there have been 1,524 orders issued to prohibit gambling platforms.
Point of View
Our stance is clear: we stand with the nation in demanding transparency and accountability from public figures. The summons issued by the ED signals a serious commitment to tackling illicit activities, particularly in the gambling sector. We urge all involved to cooperate fully with the investigation.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the illegal betting app linked to the case?
The illegal betting app in question is 1xBet, which has been under investigation for alleged money laundering activities.
Who else has been summoned by the ED?
Apart from Mimi Chakraborty and Urvashi Rautela, former cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina have also been questioned by the ED.
What is the significance of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025?
This bill aims to regulate the online gaming and e-sports sector, prohibiting all forms of online gambling.
How has the public reacted to these summons?
The public is closely monitoring the situation, with mixed reactions regarding the involvement of celebrities in illegal activities.
What measures are being taken against illegal betting platforms?
The government has issued numerous orders to ban gambling platforms, with 1,524 orders noted between 2022 and June 2025.
