Tollywood Stars Face Legal Action for Alleged Promotion of Illegal Betting Apps
Prominent actors and influencers under investigation for endorsing platforms banned in Telangana
In a significant development, the Cyberabad police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against several prominent Tollywood actors and social media influencers for allegedly promoting illegal online betting applications. The individuals named in the FIR include actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, Manchu Lakshmi, Praneetha, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Ananya Nagella, among others.
The legal action stems from a complaint filed by Miyapur resident PM Phanindra Sarma, who accused these celebrities of endorsing betting platforms that entice users, particularly the youth, with promises of quick financial gains, often resulting in significant monetary losses. He highlighted that these platforms aggressively market their services through celebrity endorsements on social media, reaching users without them actively seeking out such content.
The FIR has been lodged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to cheating and petty organized crimes, the Telangana Gaming Act, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act. Telangana had amended its Gaming Act in 2017 to ban online betting, aiming to protect the financial well-being of its residents.
Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty stated that the investigation is in its preliminary stages. Authorities plan to examine the operational mechanisms of these betting apps and the extent of involvement by the accused actors and influencers. The probe will also explore potential violations of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) guidelines issued in 2023, which delineate permissible content for influencer promotions on digital platforms.
Additionally, investigators suspect that funds circulated through these betting platforms may be laundered to foreign countries via hawala and cryptocurrency channels. The focus of the investigation includes the organizers of these apps, their promoters, and the associated financial transactions. If substantial evidence is found, those involved could face charges of abetment of crime, gambling, and cheating.
In response to the allegations, some actors have issued clarifications. Rana Daggubati stated that his endorsement contract for a skill-based gaming platform expired in 2017 and was limited to regions where such games are legal. Prakash Raj mentioned that he had collaborated with a firm in 2016 but withdrew after realizing its intentions and did not renew the contract in 2017. Similarly, Vijay Deverakonda’s team clarified that his endorsement for a skill-based gaming company concluded in 2023 and was confined to legally permissible regions.
The ongoing investigation underscores the complexities surrounding celebrity endorsements and the ethical responsibilities influencers hold in promoting products and services. As the digital landscape evolves, adherence to legal and ethical standards remains paramount to safeguard public interest.
