ED summons Sonu Sood, Yuvraj Singh, Uthappa in 1xBet betting

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned three prominent Indian celebrities—former cricketers Robin Uthappa and Yuvraj Singh, along with Bollywood actor Sonu Sood—for questioning in connection with an investigation into the illegal online betting platform 1xBet. The inquiries fall under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and are scheduled for late September 2025. This development is part of a broader government crackdown on illegal betting apps that have raised concerns for promoting illicit gambling and financially exploiting users, especially young people.

The ED is investigating 1xBet and similar platforms for allegedly operating illegally in India, evading taxes, laundering money, and cheating users through manipulated betting algorithms. Though 1xBet claims to be a global bookmaker available in multiple languages, its Indian operations were banned under the Information Technology Act in 2023, yet it reportedly continues to reach users via surrogate websites and clever marketing.

Prominent public figures, including cricketers and actors, have been called to explain their ties to these betting apps, particularly regarding promotional campaigns that helped these platforms grow their user base. Previously, former cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina were questioned, and actress Urvashi Rautela, brand ambassador of 1xBet in India, is also summoned but has not yet appeared.

The appearances of Sonu Sood (Sept 24), Yuvraj Singh (Sept 23), and Robin Uthappa (Sept 22) are aimed at understanding the extent of celebrity involvement in promoting such platforms and any possible financial irregularities linked to their endorsements. The ED is meticulously trying to map the flow of money and advertising networks that sustained these betting operations.

The government's strict stance reflects growing social concern about the impact of gambling apps on vulnerable groups, including younger users who may face financial and psychological harm. The line between "skill-based gaming" and gambling is increasingly scrutinized, with authorities alleging that apps like 1xBet use rigged systems that effectively amount to gambling, which is largely illegal under Indian law.

Public opinion appears divided on the issue. Many see the use of celebrity endorsements in colorful campaigns as a tactic that misleads fans and ordinary users into participating in risky gambling schemes without fully understanding the consequences. Critics argue that some celebrities may not have fully appreciated the legal intricacies or the social harm caused, while others believe the celebrities benefited financially, indirectly enabling the proliferation of illegal betting.

On the other hand, some supporters call for a careful, evidence-based approach to investigations, emphasizing that summoning celebrities should not imply guilt but rather clarify roles and responsibilities. The case raises questions about the ethical obligations of influencers and public figures when lending their fame to commercial ventures, especially in sectors linked to financial risk and addiction.

This case is part of a larger crackdown by Indian authorities on illegal betting and real-money gaming platforms, which have grown exponentially with the rise of mobile internet usage. Besides money laundering and tax evasion charges, governments argue that banning these platforms serves to protect the public interest and reduces criminal exploitation of digital ecosystems.

It is important to note that while the government seeks to curb such illegal activities, the enforcement processes are careful to uphold legal fairness, ensuring individuals summoned can present their cases and evidence in their defense. The investigation's outcome may influence policies on gambling regulation and celebrity endorsements going forward.

In summary, the ED’s summons to Sonu Sood, Yuvraj Singh, and Robin Uthappa highlights the increasing scrutiny of illegal betting apps like 1xBet in India. This probe underscores the government's commitment to tackling online gambling’s dubious practices and its broader societal impacts, while bringing into question the responsibility of celebrities whose endorsements may have boosted the appeal of these platforms. The case remains ongoing, and it will be important to observe how the legal and regulatory frameworks evolve to deal with digital-age betting and influencer accountability.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies