The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a money laundering investigation into nearly 30 film actors, social media influencers, and YouTubers for allegedly promoting illegal online betting platforms.
The probe, launched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), follows multiple police complaints filed in cities including Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, linking celebrity endorsements to unauthorised gambling operations.
Prominent names under scrutiny include actors Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, and Prakash Raj, along with Nidhi Agarwal, Pranitha Subhash, Manchu Lakshmi, and television personalities Sreemukhi and Shyamala. Influencers such as Harsha Sai, Bayya Sunny Yadav, and Local Boi Nani have also been named in the investigation.
Officials allege the individuals promoted platforms like JeetWin, Parimatch, and Lotus365, which are suspected of laundering funds through paid celebrity campaigns. Sources said summonses are likely to be issued in the coming weeks.
Several of those named have denied any wrongdoing and claimed they severed ties with the platforms after learning of their illegal nature. However, the case has raised concerns about the growing role of celebrity and influencer marketing in promoting unregulated betting apps, often disguised as gaming or social initiatives.
Authorities are also examining complaints from users who claim to have suffered significant financial losses after engaging with these platforms based on celebrity endorsements. One complainant reported losing over Rs 3 crore. The case highlights the challenges regulators face in tackling digital gambling with India’s existing laws, many dating back to the 19th century, under increasing strain in the age of online platforms and influencer-driven promotion.