Under the central government’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal online betting, the ED has launched a major crackdown on Friday. In the money laundering case related to the international betting app 1xBet, the ED has temporarily attached the movable and immovable property worth crores of rupees of many celebrities including former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh, Robin Uthappa and Bollywood actresses Urvashi Rautela, Sonu Sood and Mimi Chakraborty. These celebrities are alleged to have promoted this illegal platform or directly/indirectly gained financial benefits from it, while the app is in the midst of fraud and massive tax evasion with thousands of investors in the country.
How did the big celebrities get caught?
ED’s investigation revealed that betting apps like 1xBet used the ‘brand value’ of celebrities to strengthen their base in India. This app claims to be a global bookie for the past 18 years and is available in 70 languages. However, it was operating illegally in India, where it dumped crores of rupees from investors and laundered money through foreign accounts. Among the stars who have been owned by ED are Neha Sharma and Ankush Hazara. The investigation agency is finding out that the payment of ‘promotion fee’ to these celebrities was not made through illegal channels.
What is the next step of ED?
ED has sent a strong message through this action that promoting illegal betting apps also comes under the ambit of the law. Seized assets are likely to include bank balances, luxury cars and real estate assets. In the coming days, summons can be sent for questioning all these personalities so that the complete links of the financial network of 1xBet can be connected.