Vijay Deverakonda's team denies part in illegal betting app case
What's the story
Vijay Deverakonda's public relations team has clarified that the actor wasn't promoting illegal betting apps.
The team said Deverakonda had a contract with a company to be a brand ambassador for skill-based games. The endorsement was strictly limited to regions where such games are legally permitted and concluded in 2023.
The clarification comes after an FIR was filed against 25 Tollywood celebrities, including Deverakonda, for allegedly promoting illegal betting apps.
Endorsement details
Deverakonda's endorsement was for a legal skill-based gaming company
Deverakonda's PR team stressed that his previous endorsement was for a legally recognized skill-based gaming company, A23.
They quoted a Supreme Court ruling that states skill-based online games such as rummy are different from gambling and have been recognized by the Apex Court.
"The court has upheld that such games involve skill rather than chance, making them legally permissible," the statement read.
Legal review
'Endorsement aligned with legal standards'
The PR team further clarified that Deverakonda's legal team and agencies thoroughly review all associations before signing any contract.
"After a thorough legal review, he had agreed to endorse the skill-based gaming platform A23, ensuring that his association aligned with the law standards," they added.
However, they reiterated that his endorsement term ended in two years ago, and he is no longer associated with the brand.
Legal action
More about the recent FIR
Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections, an FIR has been filed against 25 Tollywood celebrities for allegedly promoting illegal betting apps.
Businessman Phanindra Sarma filed the complaint, saying these celebrities have been deliberately promoting betting apps, resulting in adverse effects, especially for the youth.
The police invoked various sections of law in the case, including Sections 318(4), 112 r/w 49 BNS, 3, 3(A), 4 TSGA, and 66 D ITA-2000.
Celebrity involvement
Celebrities and influencers booked for promoting betting apps
Along with celebs such as Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Manchu Lakshmi, Praneetha, and Nidhhi Agerwal, the police booked several influencers.
According to the complainant, their actions have led to major financial distress for several households. The complaint noted public figures' responsibility in endorsing such products as common people tend to trust celebrities.