Telugu cinema star faces questioning over alleged illegal promotion of betting platforms
Popular Telugu actor Vijay Deverakonda appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Hyderabad today as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged illegal promotion of online betting applications. The actor arrived at the central agency's regional office in Basheerbagh around 11 AM, making him the second prominent celebrity to face questioning in this high-profile case.
The ED's probe stems from an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) filed against 29 celebrities, including actors, television personalities, and social media influencers. These public figures are accused of promoting betting apps in violation of Indian gaming laws, with the agency suspecting their endorsements were part of a larger money laundering scheme involving illegal gambling operations.
Prior to his appearance, Deverakonda's team issued a comprehensive clarification defending the actor's position. They emphasized that his association was strictly limited to endorsing a "skill-based gaming platform" rather than illegal betting or gambling applications. The statement highlighted that his endorsement was conducted only in "regions and territories where online skill-based games are legally permitted."
The clarification references the Supreme Court of India's distinction between "skill-based games" like rummy and pure gambling, noting that such games require skill rather than chance. Deverakonda's legal team stressed that they thoroughly reviewed all agreements to ensure compliance with legal standards before any endorsement deal was finalized.
Significantly, the actor's endorsement contract with the gaming platform A23 ended in 2023, and he is no longer associated with the brand.
Veteran actor Prakash Raj was among the first celebrities questioned by the ED in this case. Following his interrogation, Raj told media that his limited association with a betting app dated back to 2016, claiming he withdrew from the contract on "moral grounds" without receiving payment.
The investigation has also ensnared other prominent names including Rana Daggubati, who was initially scheduled to appear on July 23 but received an extension due to film commitments. He is now expected to appear on August 11. Other celebrities named in the FIR include Manchu Lakshmi, Nidhhi Agerwal, Pranitha Subhash, and television anchor Srimukhi.
The case is being investigated under multiple legal provisions, including Sections 318(4) and 112 of the Bharat Nyay Sanhita, Section 4 of the Telangana State Gaming Act, and Section 66-D of the IT Act. These charges relate to fraudulent activity, online deception, and violations of state gaming regulations.
The ED is meticulously examining financial transactions and digital records to determine the extent of each celebrity's involvement and trace the flow of funds through these alleged illegal operations.
This investigation has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, highlighting the complex legal landscape surrounding celebrity endorsements of gaming and betting platforms. The case underscores the importance of due diligence when public figures associate with brands operating in legally gray areas.
As the investigation continues, the entertainment industry watches closely to see how this case will shape future endorsement practices and regulatory oversight of online gaming platforms in India.
The ED's investigation remains ongoing, with several more celebrities expected to appear for questioning in the coming weeks.
