Prakash Raj Appears Before ED in Hyderabad Over Betting App Case

Quick Summary

• Actor Prakash Raj appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on July 30, 2025, in Hyderabad in connection with an inquiry into alleged paid promotions for unauthorised online betting platforms.
• The ED probe falls under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and involves multiple FIRs across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
• Prakash Raj is among several celebrities summoned by the agency, including:

– actor Rana Daggubati (appearing date postponed),
– Vijay Deverakonda (to appear on August 6),
– Manchu Lakshmi (to appear on August 13).

• ED suspects endorsements were camouflaged as entertainment or charitable efforts but actually promoted illegal gambling apps.
• The investigation has named a total of 29 individuals so far,including actors,YouTubers,and influencers. Allegations center around whether these actions were isolated incidents or part of an organized effort.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The ongoing investigation by the ED into celebrity endorsements raises broader concerns about accountability in India’s entertainment industry and its influence over masses through digital campaigns. While such actors contribute considerably to India’s cultural fabric, their involvement in promoting perhaps harmful content invites closer scrutiny regarding ethical practices for celebrity endorsements. If proven guilty of endorsing unregulated platforms under misleading narratives like charity or entertainment promotions, it could set a legal precedent influencing both endorsement guidelines and public trust.

Additionally, this case underscores the growing need to regulate digital spaces where financial crimes such as unauthorised gambling proliferate. With several prominent figures being investigated under PMLA jurisdiction across states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh-impact ripple effects may extend beyond penalization to reform-oriented measures aimed at tighter controls over influencer marketing strategies.

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