Did Actor Vijay Deverakonda Appear Before ED in the Betting Apps Case?
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Synopsis
In an unfolding legal drama, actor Vijay Deverakonda has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate regarding the promotion of illegal betting apps. This comes amidst a larger investigation involving several celebrities, raising questions about the ethics of endorsements in the entertainment industry.
Key Takeaways
- Vijay Deverakonda appeared before the ED regarding illegal betting app endorsements.
- The investigation includes multiple celebrities and influencers.
- The ED operates under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
- Allegations point to violations of the Public Gambling Act.
- Legal and ethical responsibilities of endorsements are under scrutiny.
Hyderabad, Aug 6 (NationPress) Tollywood actor Vijay Deverakonda made an appearance on Wednesday before the Enforcement Directorate concerning the alleged endorsement of unlawful betting applications.
The actor reached the agency's regional office at Basheerbagh around 11 a.m. for questioning.
He is expected to answer queries regarding his agreements with betting apps and the financial transactions involved.
Vijay Deverakonda is the second actor summoned in this case.
Previously, Prakash Raj was interrogated for five hours on July 30, where he asserted that he did not receive any payment for a past advertisement.
The officials gathered information about a promotional advertisement he did for a betting app back in 2016. Prakash Raj emphasized that he did not accept payment due to his ethical convictions.
He reiterated his view, stating he had only done one advertisement for a gaming app but later regretted his decision.
The ED has also summoned actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi in connection with the case.
Rana Daggubati was scheduled to appear on July 23 but requested a reschedule. The agency has since issued a new notice for him to appear on August 11.
Meanwhile, Manchu Lakshmi has been instructed to appear on August 13.
These four actors are part of a larger group of 29 celebrities who were reported by the ED on July 10 for allegedly promoting unlawful betting platforms.
The agency filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against these 29 actors, influencers, and YouTubers for their endorsement activities, which violate the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
The ongoing investigation, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, is rooted in five FIRs lodged in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Actors such as Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Nidhi Agarwal, Pranitha Subhash, Manchu Lakshmi, and Ananya Nagella are included in the ED's inquiry, which suspects money laundering within these transactions.
Additionally, various TV actors, hosts, and social media influencers like Sreemukhi, Shyamala, Varshini Sounderajan, Vasanthi Krishnan, Shoba Shetty, Amrutha Chowdary, Nayani Pavani, Neha Pathan, Pandu, Padhmavathi, Harsha Sai, and Bayya Sunny Yadav are also under scrutiny.
Prior to this, many of these figures were already charged by the Hyderabad and Cyberabad Police. FIRs against them were filed at multiple police stations including Panjagutta, Miyapur, Cyberabad, Suryapet, and Visakhapatnam.
In March, Deverakonda and Rana Daggubati were among those charged by the Cyberabad police for allegedly promoting betting applications.
Both actors have claimed they only endorsed legally sanctioned online skill-based games.
Point of View
It is crucial to ensure that the entertainment industry operates within the legal framework, as violations can have widespread implications. The ongoing investigation into Vijay Deverakonda and other celebrities serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with fame and influence.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for Vijay Deverakonda's appearance before the ED?
Vijay Deverakonda is appearing before the Enforcement Directorate in relation to the alleged promotion of illegal betting applications.
Which other celebrities are involved in this case?
Other celebrities involved include Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, and Manchu Lakshmi, among others.
What legal framework is being violated in this case?
The allegations suggest violations of the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
What is an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR)?
An ECIR is a document filed by the Enforcement Directorate to initiate an investigation into suspected money laundering or other financial crimes.
What actions have been taken against these celebrities so far?
The Enforcement Directorate has filed an ECIR and summoned multiple celebrities for questioning regarding their involvement with illegal betting platforms.
