Hyderabad, March 21, 2025 — In a significant development, several leading figures from the Telugu film industry, including Rana Daggubati, Vijay Deverakonda, and Prakash Raj, have been named in a First Information Report (FIR) by the Cyberabad police. The allegations pertain to their promotion of online betting applications, which are purportedly enticing individuals into financial investments that may lead to monetary losses.
Details of the Allegations
The FIR, lodged at the Miyapur police station, lists prominent actors such as Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, Manchu Lakshmi, Pranitha, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Ananya Nagalla, along with various social media influencers. The core accusation is that these celebrities endorsed online betting platforms that allegedly mislead users with promises of quick financial gains, potentially resulting in significant financial distress.
Legal Framework and Charges
The investigation is in its preliminary stages, with authorities examining the operational dynamics of these betting applications and the extent of the celebrities’ involvement. The charges invoked include sections related to cheating and organized crimes under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), violations of the Telangana Gaming Act, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act. Notably, Telangana amended its Gaming Act in 2017 to prohibit online betting, aiming to safeguard the financial well-being of its residents.
Catalyst for the Investigation
The police action was initiated following a complaint by PM Phanindra Sarma, a resident of Miyapur. Sarma alleged that these apps, promoted by celebrities and influencers, lure individuals—especially the youth—under the guise of easy monetary gains, often leading to financial ruin. He highlighted that these platforms aggressively market their services on social media, leveraging celebrity endorsements to reach a broader audience.
Broader Implications and Investigations
This incident is part of a wider crackdown on the promotion of online betting platforms. Hyderabad police are concurrently investigating similar cases, emphasizing that endorsing such apps violates the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) guidelines issued in 2023. Authorities are also probing potential money laundering aspects, suspecting that funds circulated through these apps might be transferred abroad via hawala and cryptocurrency channels. If evidence substantiates these claims, promoters could face charges related to abetment of crime, gambling, and cheating.
Industry and Public Reactions
The Telugu film industry and the public are closely monitoring these developments. This situation underscores the ethical responsibilities of celebrities in their promotional activities and raises awareness about the potential risks associated with online betting platforms.
For more updates on this evolving story, stay tuned to Tollywood Hungama.