Actor Vijay Deverakonda is currently in the spotlight due to his recently released film 'Kingdom,' which is attracting audiences in theaters. On the other hand, he has also become a topic of discussion due to a legal matter.
Betting App Case: South film industry's prominent actor Vijay Deverakonda appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday. This appearance was in connection with an alleged illegal online betting app case in which his name has surfaced. Vijay Deverakonda is currently busy promoting his film 'Kingdom,' but in the midst of this, he had to appear at the ED office located in Basheerbagh, Hyderabad.
What is the matter?
This case is related to money laundering and illegal online betting applications, which were promoted through social media influencers and film stars. People were encouraged to bet through these apps, leading to the laundering of large amounts of black money. The ED had already initiated investigations against approximately 25 celebrities, including Prakash Raj, Rana Daggubati, Lakshmi Manchu. All of them were found promoting these platforms through their social media accounts.
Vijay Deverakonda's statement
After exiting the ED office, Vijay Deverakonda spoke to the media, saying:
'This is a case of betting apps and money laundering, which I did once in 2016. On ethical grounds, I did not pursue it further and stopped it at that time. I have clarified to the ED officials that I did not receive any money from it, as my intention was not to profit from it. They have taken all the details and the questioning is now over.'
He further said that he kept answering the questions asked by the authorities honestly, as it is his duty as a citizen.
FIR against 25 celebrities, investigation accelerates
Telangana Police had registered an FIR against 25 film stars and social media influencers earlier this year. The allegation was that they were all promoting illegal betting apps, due to which millions of people were misled and started betting their hard-earned money. The FIR was registered at Miyapur Police Station in Hyderabad on the complaint of a businessman. The complainant alleged that these promoters were paid huge sums to portray these betting platforms as legitimate and profitable.
Actor says: 'No conspiracy, no politics'
Vijay Deverakonda also clarified that there is no conspiracy or political motivation in this entire matter. He said: This investigation is a normal process and I am fully cooperating in it. There is no politics or malice, as is often tried to be shown. Interestingly, Vijay Deverakonda's film 'Kingdom' is currently running in theaters.
In such a situation, this summons and appearance of the ED is being considered a major setback amidst the promotion of the film. However, the actor has clarified that this matter is old and has nothing to do with his current film.
