ED Cracks Down on Tollywood Stars: Big Names in Betting App Endorsements

Anton Kirichenko -

A Major Turn of Events in Tollywood: Enforcement Directorate Takes Action

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated legal proceedings against 29 prominent figures in the Telugu entertainment scene. Renowned stars, such as Vijay Deverakonda and Rana Daggubati, find themselves in the spotlight—not for their acting prowess, but for alleged endorsements of illegal betting apps. The charges come under heavy scrutiny due to potential violations of several legislative acts, including the Public Gambling Act, 1867.

The Investigation Unfolds

Filing an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), the ED dives deep into accusations grounded in five FIRs across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. These filings highlight a serious charge against accused celebrities for promoting illegal betting platforms. The list reads like a who’s who of Tollywood fame, featuring not just actors Vijay Deverakonda and Prakash Raj, but also influential social media personalities.

The investigation taps into several sections under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, aiming to untangle a web of endorsements tied to platforms like Junglee Rummy and A23. Among the many celebrities bookended in this unfolding tale are famous TV hosts and social media experts who are said to have played a role in promoting such platforms.

The charges, substantiated by multiple FIRs at police stations from Panjagutta to Visakhapatnam, paint a concerning picture of celebrity influence being used to bolster questionable online ventures. Cases had already been lodged by Cyberabad’s Miyapur Police against several accused individuals, further stitching a complex tapestry of social and legal implications.

Clarifications Amid Chaos

In a bid to distance themselves, stars like Rana Daggubati have clarified that their endorsements were limited to legally sanctioned online games. Meanwhile, seasoned actor Prakash Raj disclosed he abstained from renewing any such promotions after realizing potential legal ramifications as early as 2017, yet the shadow of public doubt looms large, indicating caution even at this stage.

Public Backlash and Societal Concerns

The onset of these allegations underscores more than just a legal conundrum; it echoes societal distress. Endorsements of betting apps were reportedly responsible for fostering addictive behaviors, leading to personal and social tumult, a reality that concerned citizens voiced strongly.

A Yet Unfolding Drama

The ED’s pursuit to tackle criminal conduits within the entertainment industry epitomizes a proactive stance on preserving societal ethics in the face of misleading celebrity endorsements. According to GujaratSamachar English, this widespread investigation into Tollywood giants remains a developing story, capturing both public imagination and trepidation.