The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned four prominent South Indian actors – Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi – in a widening investigation into the promotion of illegal online betting platforms. The summons are part of a broader money‑laundering inquiry under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), based on multiple FIRs filed across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
According to official schedules, Rana Daggubati is expected on July 23, Prakash Raj on July 30, Vijay Deverakonda on August 6, and Manchu Lakshmi on August 13. These notices stem from an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered on July 10, targeting 29 celebrities – including YouTubers, influencers, and other film personalities – for endorsing apps like Junglee Rummy, JeetWin, Lotus365 and A23.
The ED is scrutinizing whether the celebrities knowingly promoted illegal betting apps and if they benefited financially from unregulated funds. The campaign utilized social media and popup ads targeting younger audiences – raising concerns about digital exploitation and financial deception.
Wider Investigation & Context
This operation builds on prior FIRs by Hyderabad and Cyberabad police earlier this year, which initially triggered the ECIR. Additionally, ED has summoned representatives from Google and Meta—another signal of the investigation’s depth probing whether these platforms facilitated betting app advertisements and money laundering via their ad networks.
Celebrities Respond
Some actors, including Prakash Raj and Rana Daggubati, have claimed they ended promotions after discovering possible illegality. Raj reportedly ceased his endorsement in 2017, while Deverakonda says he only promoted what he believed were skill-based, legal games.
The Stakes & Implications
- Legal Implications: If found complicit, the actors could face severe charges under PMLA and applicable gambling laws, including money laundering.
- Reputation Risk: The scandal underscores growing scrutiny of celebrity endorsements, especially when targeting impressionable demographics.
- Potential Regulatory Ripples: This case may prompt tighter regulation on betting apps and digital promotions, as tech platforms and influencers fall under increasing oversight.
Photo Credit: The Hindu
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