A significant legal spotlight has swung onto the entertainment world. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a wide-ranging inquiry, casting a shadow over 29 public figures. This includes well-known actors like Vijay Deverakonda and Rana Daggubati, alongside numerous YouTubers and social media influencers. The agency has filed an Enforcement Case Information Report, or ECIR, against these individuals. The core accusation? Promoting online betting applications that are not permitted by law.
This move by the ED has sent ripples through the South Indian film industry. Beyond Deverakonda and Daggubati, other prominent names facing scrutiny include Manchu Lakshmi, Prakash Raj, and Nithin Agarwal. This official action stems from a First Information Report (FIR) originally lodged by the Cyberabad Police. The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of these celebrity endorsements.
The ED’s net extends beyond movie stars. According to reports from the Economic Times, two television hosts are also part of the inquiry. The investigation isn’t just focused on film and TV personalities; it’s also looking closely at digital content creators. Authorities suspect that these individuals might have handled substantial sums of money through these promotions. This raises concerns about potential money laundering activities.
Naturally, some of the implicated stars have come forward to share their side of the story. Vijay Deverakonda, for instance, issued a statement defending his involvement. He clarified that his role was simply as a brand ambassador for a “skill-based gaming platform.” His team pointed to a Supreme Court decision that identifies the game Rummy as a game of skill, distinguishing it from games purely based on chance.
Rana Daggubati’s team also released a statement, explaining his previous connections. They stated that his association with a skill-based gaming application ended back in 2017. Furthermore, they emphasized that any advertisements he did were fully compliant with the law at the time. His team ensured these endorsements received proper legal vetting. Veteran actor Prakash Raj also commented on his past. He said he supported Junglee Rummy in 2016 but separated from the company after just one year.