Urvashi Rautela and Sonu Sood Questioned by Enforcement Directorate Over Online Betting Investigation
Actors Urvashi Rautela and Sonu Sood have recently been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding their alleged connections to illegal online betting platforms. This investigation is part of a broader inquiry into celebrity endorsements that may have violated Indian gambling laws.
According to reports, the ED is looking into the pair’s ties with certain gambling websites. They were specifically asked about their endorsement contracts and promotional activities related to betting apps. One of the apps under scrutiny, named “1xbat,” reportedly led users to 1xBet, a gambling site that is currently banned in India.
An ED official mentioned that these platforms have gained significant attention due to partnerships with celebrities, despite existing government bans. Neither actor has made an official statement regarding their questioning so far.
The investigation has expanded to include other well-known figures in both the entertainment and sports sectors. Cricketers like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina have also been called in for questioning. The ED believes that endorsements from high-profile personalities have helped these banned platforms gain credibility, resulting in substantial user engagement and financial fraud.
In March, an FIR was filed in Hyderabad against 25 celebrities for promoting illegal betting sites. The list includes well-known actors and public figures such as Nidhi Agarwal, Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Manchu Lakshmi, and Praneetha.
This situation highlights the serious implications of celebrity endorsements in the face of legal restrictions in the gambling industry.
