By- Paramita Datta
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken control of properties worth Rs 7.93 crore for a short time. These properties belong to some famous people.
The list includes former cricketers like Yuvraj Singh and Robin Uthappa, and actor Urvashi Rautela, Sonu Sood, Neha Sharma, Ankush Hazra, including TMC Lok Sabha member Mimi Chakraborty. The ED did this under a law called the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
This action is part of an investigation into illegal online gambling websites like 1xBet and its related sites, such as 1xBet and 1xBat Sporting Lines.
The ED inquiry began following multiple cases lodged by various state police departments. The investigation revealed that 1xBet was functioning in India without proper authorization. The company was found to draw in users via deceptive brand names, social media marketing, online videos, and printed advertisements.
The inquiry revealed that the celebrities were aware they signed endorsement agreements with international firms linked to 1xBet. Reports indicated that the payments were routed through various overseas intermediaries to conceal the origin of the funds from illicit betting operations. The agency views this money as unlawful earnings.
The agency stated that unlawful betting and gambling sites result in significant financial losses, which directly or indirectly facilitate money laundering and assist various illegal activities. Making a public alert, the ED urged individuals to avoid these platforms and to inform law enforcement about any questionable advertisements or transactions.
The agency issued an alert to all celebrities and social media influencers regarding their usage on betting and gambling platforms. It stated that endorsing, backing, or promoting illegal betting or gambling sites is a grave offense. This alert applies not just to direct promotion but also to indirect assistance, to as sharing links, creating posts, or motivating others in any manner. Even if a celebrity or influencer doesn’t explicitly state “use this app,” their actions can still be considered a crime if they support such platforms. The agency further mentioned that numerous individuals, particularly the younger users, place their trust in well-known figures and heed their recommendations. As a result, celebrities carry significant responsibility.