Yuvraj Singh questioned by ED in money laundering case
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh has been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate(ED) in a money laundering case linked to an online betting app, 1xBet. The questioning was part of a wider investigation into illegal betting platforms that are allegedly evading taxes and duping people. Other celebrities, including Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan, have been questioned, and Sonu Sood has been summoned as part of this probe.
Legal proceedings
Who else has been questioned
Singh, 43, was questioned by the investigating officer of the case who recorded his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He arrived at the agency's office in central Delhi around noon with his legal team. An influencer named Anveshi Jain also appeared before the ED for questioning in this case.
Probe details
What is the 1xBet betting app
The investigation into the operations of the 1xBet betting app is part of a wider probe against such platforms on allegations of duping people and evading taxes. According to information available on its website, Curacao-registered 1xBet claims to be a global bookmaker with 18 years in the betting industry. The brand's customers can bet on thousands of sporting events through its website and app available in 70 languages.
Future inquiries
More celebrities are likely to be questioned
More sportspersons, movie actors, online influencers, and celebrities are likely to be questioned by the ED in this probe. The agency may also soon start the process of attaching assets of those found using the alleged proceeds of crime from promotional activities for this app. A chargesheet will be filed before a court later on.
Inquiry specifics
ED is probing these aspects
The ED is probing how these celebrities were contacted by the betting company for endorsement, who their nodal persons for contact in India were, and the mode and place of payment. The agency is also asking them if they knew online betting and gaming was illegal in India. They have been asked to provide copies of contracts and all relevant email/paper documentation with 1xBet.
Regulatory action
Union government bans real money online gaming in India
The Union government recently banned real money online gaming in India through legislation. The ED has also decided to launch "focused strategies" to investigate financial crimes arising from this sector linked to alleged illegal betting and gaming. According to market analysis firms and probe agencies, there were an estimated 22 crore Indian users on various such apps before the government ban, half of whom were regular users.