ED Widens Probe into Illegal Betting Apps
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) intensified its crackdown on celebrities linked to illegal betting platforms by summoning two high-profile figures from the entertainment industry. Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament and actress Mimi Chakraborty appeared before ED officials in Delhi on Monday, while Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela has been directed to depose on Tuesday. Both are under scrutiny for their alleged association with the controversial online betting app 1xBet, which has been accused of money laundering, tax evasion, and deceiving users.
Mimi Chakraborty Appears for Questioning
Mimi Chakraborty, 36, who transitioned from politics back to her acting career earlier this year, faced several hours of questioning. According to officials, her statement is being recorded under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Investigators are probing her financial transactions and promotional engagements with 1xBet. Reports suggest that Chakraborty had connections with the betting company through endorsements and payments that now fall under ED’s scanner.
Chakraborty, a popular face in Bengali cinema, stepped down from active politics earlier in 2024 but continues to remain in the public eye. Her appearance before the central agency marks another celebrity addition to the widening list of individuals being investigated in the betting app scandal.
Urvashi Rautela Under the Spotlight
Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela, who is known for her strong social media presence and international appearances, has also been summoned by the ED. She is the official Indian brand ambassador for 1xBet, a role that brought her under immediate scrutiny when the betting platform came under investigation. Rautela has been instructed to appear before the agency on September 16.
Officials have indicated that investigators aim to examine the details of her endorsement deal, including the fee structure, contractual obligations, and whether she had any knowledge of the alleged illegalities linked to the app. Sources reveal that ED is particularly focused on understanding how celebrity endorsements might have contributed to the app’s growing influence in India.
Sports Celebrities Already Questioned
The probe is not limited to film stars. Earlier this month, cricketer Shikhar Dhawan was questioned for nearly eight hours regarding his alleged association with 1xBet through promotional activities. Similarly, ex-Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has also faced interrogation. Both were asked to provide details of their agreements, payments received, and the mode of communication with the betting company.
The questioning of prominent athletes highlights how betting platforms have used celebrity status to gain legitimacy and attract millions of Indian users, despite restrictions and bans on such activities.
India’s Battle with Illegal Betting
Online betting apps like 1xBet have gained immense popularity in India, drawing in over 22 crore users, according to market research estimates cited by probe agencies. Alarmingly, nearly half of these—about 11 crore individuals—are said to be regular users. The Central government has already imposed a ban on real-money online gaming in an attempt to curb gambling-related losses and exploitation.
The ED’s investigation aims to uncover not only the extent of financial irregularities but also whether celebrities, knowingly or unknowingly, contributed to the app’s operations that allegedly duped investors and players of crores of rupees.
The Bigger Picture
The summons to Mimi Chakraborty and Urvashi Rautela underscore the larger issue of celebrity influence in illegal industries. Investigators believe endorsements by popular actors, cricketers, and influencers gave betting apps a veneer of credibility, encouraging millions of unsuspecting users to join. By roping in celebrities, the platforms created a perception of legality and trustworthiness, despite operating outside India’s regulatory framework.
As the ED expands its investigation, sources suggest that more film stars, influencers, and sportspersons are expected to be called in for questioning in the coming weeks. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how endorsements are regulated, especially in industries with legal and ethical grey areas.
Conclusion
The betting app scandal has once again highlighted the blurred lines between glamour, influence, and legality. While celebrities often see endorsements as part of their professional portfolio, the ongoing ED probe shows that such associations can have serious legal and reputational consequences. For now, all eyes remain on Urvashi Rautela’s appearance before the agency, as investigators dig deeper into the network of endorsements tied to 1xBet.
