Actress Manchu Lakshmi shows signs of irritation towards photographers upon her arrival for questioning by the Enforcement Directorate in the Betting App Case.
Hyderabad's Celebrity-Endorsed Illegal Betting Apps Under Scrutiny
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Hyderabad is investigating a case involving several celebrities who have endorsed illegal betting applications. The investigation, which is running parallel to a police case, is focused on tracing financial flows, contractual arrangements with celebrities, and potential money laundering activities.
The investigation was initiated based on an FIR registered by the Cyberabad police, naming several actors, including Manchu Lakshmi Prasanna, who had appeared in advertisements for these betting platforms. Manchu Lakshmi Prasanna, an actress, producer, and television personality, appeared before the ED on August 13, 2025. Thirty-six film industry figures, including Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Rana Daggubati, have received summons in this matter, with senior actors such as the ones mentioned already appearing before the ED.
The ED's investigation is primarily scrutinizing the celebrities' actions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the Public Gambling Act, 1867, and the newly enacted Online Gaming Bill. The PMLA targets financial transactions that may facilitate money laundering, while the Public Gambling Act prohibits unlicensed gambling. The Online Gaming Bill imposes penalties for promoting real money gaming platforms illegally.
The controversy over celebrity endorsements of betting apps has sparked outrage, with many arguing that the involvement of popular personalities lends credibility to illegal betting, drawing in a large number of unsuspecting users. Some alleged cases of suicide are linked to the fallout of the online gambling activities, and authorities believe the influence of these endorsements amplified the reach of the apps, making it easier for them to bypass legal restrictions.
The investigation may also probe other celebrities in connection with the promotion of illegal betting applications. The ED has not yet commented on the individual culpability of the actors summoned, but reports suggest that statements gathered so far will help determine whether further legal action, including prosecution, is warranted.
As Manchu Lakshmi Prasanna entered the ED office, she was heard asking the media to behave themselves. The ED building premises were swarming with reporters, photographers, and cameramen, eager to catch a glimpse of the actress. The investigation is a significant development in the ongoing crackdown on illegal betting activities in Hyderabad.
References:
- The Times of India
- NDTV
- The Hindu
- The New Indian Express
- India Today
The investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered the role of entertainment industry celebrities in endorsing illegal betting apps, boosting their Popularity and potentially encouraging unaware users to join such platforms. With many celebrities, including Manchu Lakshmi Prasanna, under scrutiny for their involvement, the ED is examining if these individuals have engaged in activities that contravene laws like the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the Public Gambling Act, 1867, and the Online Gaming Bill.
