Prakash Raj, a popular Indian actor, has found himself in hot water. He is suspected of being involved in promoting several illegal online gaming apps. The ED (Enforcement Directorate) summoned the actor for questioning.
Raj is famous for starring in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, English, and Hindi-language films. He responded to the summons by appearing at the ED office, where officials questioned him for four hours.
The questioning was related to a money laundering case. It was connected to illegal online gambling platforms such as Junglee Rummy, JeetWin, and Lotus36. A report filed in March sparked the case. The report accused 25 public figures and social media personalities of alleged ties to illegal platforms. This led to an investigation into the matter.
The report states that the 25 individuals received money for promoting the illegal operators. The complaint further alleged that the unlicensed companies employ predatory tactics and are specifically harmful to lower and middle-income families.
Hindustan Times says that Raj acknowledged his prior connection with the apps. He confirmed partnering with the platforms in 2016 but claimed he declined any payment on moral grounds.
Moreover, Raj said that he no longer works with the apps in any capacity.
Because of Raj’s past involvement in politics, reporters questioned him about the possibility of political motivation behind the inquiry. He firmly denied this notion, saying that officers are doing their job. As a citizen, he must cooperate and answer their questions. There is not witch-hunting or political motivation in this.
According to the Hindustan Times report, officials have not asked Raj to return for further questioning.
For now, the war on illegal gambling of India continues as the country looks to shake off the negative effects of unauthorized platforms on society.
