ED summons Sonu Sood, former cricketers Robin Uthappa and Yuvraj Singh in illegal betting case
PTC News Desk: The Enforcement Directorate summoned former India cricketers Robin Uthappa and Yuvraj Singh, along with Bollywood actor Sonu Sood, for interrogation in connection with its ongoing investigation into illegal online betting platform 1xBet.
“Their statements will be recorded under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act as the agency examine the role of celebrities and influencers in promoting the betting platform,” a senior official said.
The summons were issued on the same day actress Urvashi Rautela was called to appear at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) headquarters. However, sources said she has not yet presented herself before the agency.
Previously, former cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina had also been questioned regarding promotional contracts and financial dealings tied to the betting platform. The ED’s probe focuses on accusations that 1xBet ran illegally in India, laundered money, evaded taxes, and manipulated its systems to cheat users.
Investigators are examining whether celebrity endorsements played a role in expanding the app’s user base and drawing in new players, many of whom reportedly suffered heavy financial losses. Officials noted that the investigation falls under a broader crackdown on illegal betting and real-money gaming platforms, which have proliferated in recent years. The Union Government has already passed legislation banning such apps, citing their damaging social and economic effects, particularly on the youth.
According to ED sources, more celebrities and influencers may be summoned in the coming weeks as the agency continues tracing money trails and the networks supporting the app’s operations in India.
- With inputs from agencies
