Robin Uthappa Questioned by ED in Online Betting App Case
By Parth Dhall | Sep 22, 2025 | 02:06 PM
Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa was summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged money laundering case linked to the illegal online betting platform 1xBet. The 39-year-old arrived at the ED Headquarters around 11 AM on September 22, where he was questioned under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Investigation into Illegal Betting Platforms
This questioning is part of a broader crackdown on illegal betting platforms and their celebrity endorsers. The ED is currently probing multiple cases involving unlawful betting apps that are suspected of duping investors and users of crores of rupees, as well as evading significant tax payments.
1xBet, a Curacao-registered company, claims to be a “globally recognized bookmaker” with 18 years of experience in the betting industry. The platform offers betting options on thousands of sporting events and is accessible in 70 languages worldwide through its website and app.
Focus on Celebrity Endorsements
The ED’s investigation is focusing on how celebrities, including cricketers and Bollywood as well as South Indian film stars, were approached by 1xBet for endorsements. Authorities are examining the contacts involved in India, the nature of compensation received, and whether these payments constitute “proceeds of crime” under the PMLA.
Since last year, several prominent figures have been questioned regarding their alleged promotion of illegal betting platforms. Robin Uthappa now joins this growing list of celebrities under scrutiny.
Legal Framework: Ban on Real-Money Online Gaming
In response to the rising concerns over illegal online betting, the Indian government passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, last month. This new law places online gaming under a central regulatory framework and empowers the government to ban real-money gaming platforms.
As a result, many platforms offering real-money games—including Dream11, Games24x7, Winzo, GamesKraft, 99Games, KheloFantasy, and My11Circle—were mandated to cease their operations in India.
The ongoing investigations and new legislation mark a significant step toward curbing illegal online betting and regulating the gaming industry in the country.
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