ED Investigates 29 Celebrities Over Betting App Endorsements

Recently, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched an investigation into 29 public figures, including actors Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Rana Daggubati, over their endorsements of online betting apps. The probe is linked to allegations that these endorsements helped promote platforms involved in money laundering.

The case is based on FIRs filed in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Besides actors, several YouTubers and social media influencers, mainly from the Telugu film industry, are also being investigated.

Authorities believe that the promotional campaigns misled users, especially financially vulnerable groups, into using betting apps classified under gambling, which is prohibited by law. The complaint came from businessman Phanindra Sarma, who claimed celebrity promotions caused financial distress among app users.

In response, Vijay Deverakonda said his endorsement was for a ‘skill-based game’ contract, legally distinct from gambling. Rana Daggubati’s legal team said his association with the app ended in 2017. Prakash Raj stated that his promotional video was reused without consent in 2021, and he objected to it.

The investigation is ongoing, with further questioning and financial record examination expected in the coming weeks.