• Source:JND
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Online Betting App Row: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has called four leading film actors for questioning in connection with its investigation into illegal online betting promotions. Actors Rana Daggubati, Vijay Deverakonda, Prakash Raj and Lakshmi Manchu have been asked to appear before the agency on different dates over the next few weeks.

The Times Of India report cited Sources as stating that, Rana Daggubati has been summoned for July 23, while Prakash Raj is scheduled for July 30. Vijay Deverakonda has been asked to appear on August 6 and Lakshmi Manchu on August 13. The ED will continue summoning others linked to the case in a phased manner.

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The case falls under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and stems from several FIRs lodged at Panjagutta, Miyapur, Suryapet, Cyberabad and Visakhapatnam police stations. These FIRs allege that many public figures, including actors and digital content creators, promoted illegal betting platforms through advertisements and social media campaigns.

The ED’s Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) has named 29 individuals, including actors, influencers and YouTubers. Some of those under the scanner are Nidhi Agarwal, Praneetha, Sreemukhi, Shyamala and YouTubers like Harsha Sai, Bayya Sunny Yadav and creators behind the ‘Local Boy Nani’ channel.

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The probe was triggered by a complaint filed by PM Phanindra Sarma from Miyapur on March 19, 2025. In his statement, Sarma mentioned that he noticed several young people in his neighbourhood getting drawn to betting apps after seeing celebrity endorsements. He claimed that he almost joined one such app himself but stopped after his family advised against it.

Sarma’s complaint named specific celebrities and their alleged endorsements. He accused Rana Daggubati and Prakash Raj of promoting JungleeRummy and Vijay Deverakonda of endorsing A23. According to him, these promotions gave the impression that betting was a safe and profitable activity, which led many to financial losses.

The investigation is ongoing and further summons are expected in the coming weeks.