The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned several high-profile Telugu film celebrities in connection with the promotion of illegal online betting applications. Among those under the scanner are actors Prakash Raj, Rana Daggubati, Vijay Deverakonda, Manchu Lakshmi, and several others who allegedly endorsed these apps on their social media platforms.
On Wednesday, actor Prakash Raj appeared before the ED at its Basheerbagh office in Hyderabad following the summons. His questioning is part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged financial irregularities tied to online betting and gambling games promoted by public personalities.
Earlier this year, the Telangana State Police had registered an FIR against 25 celebrities and social media influencers. The list includes prominent names such as Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, Manchu Lakshmi, along with actors and influencers like Praneetha, Nidhi Agarwal, Ananya Nagella, Siri Hanumanthu, Sreemukhi, and Varshini Sounderajan.
These celebrities are accused of promoting illegal betting apps that have led to substantial monetary losses among users. According to the complaint filed with the police, these applications often exploit people from lower- and middle-income families by promising quick and easy money, resulting in financial hardship and distress for many.
There are also reports suggesting that celebrities allegedly received large payments for endorsing these platforms. The police have taken a serious view of these promotions, especially considering the growing public concern over the addictive nature and financial risks associated with online betting.
The FIR has invoked several provisions under the Telangana Gaming Act and the Information Technology (IT) Act. These include Section 66(D) of the IT Act, which pertains to cheating by impersonation using communication devices, and other sections that deal with promoting unlawful betting activities.
The investigation is still underway, and the ED is expected to summon more individuals in the coming days as it seeks to uncover the full extent of the alleged nexus between influencers and betting platforms.
