In a major development, popular Tollywood actors Rana Daggubati and Vijay Devarakonda, along with several other celebrities, have been booked in Telangana for allegedly promoting illegal betting apps. The Telangana Police have initiated legal action following a formal complaint about the promotion of banned online gaming platforms.
According to sources, the actors are accused of endorsing betting apps that operate outside the legal framework and violate the Telangana Gaming Act. These apps are reportedly involved in online gambling and betting, which is strictly prohibited in the state.
The case was filed after public outrage and pressure from social activists who raised concerns about the influence of celebrities in encouraging youth towards illegal gambling. The complaint alleges that by appearing in promotional campaigns and advertisements, these actors contributed to the spread and popularity of these platforms.
Police officials stated that a preliminary investigation has been launched, and further legal proceedings will be based on the examination of contracts, promotional materials, and financial transactions between the celebrities and the betting platforms.
While no official arrest has been made, the accused celebrities, including Rana Daggubati and Vijay Devarakonda, may be summoned for questioning. The authorities emphasized that the law applies equally to all, and celebrity status will not exempt anyone from investigation.
The state of Telangana has stringent laws against online gambling, and this case marks a significant step towards curbing the promotion of illegal betting platforms. Earlier, similar cases have been filed against social media influencers and app developers associated with such platforms.
Legal experts believe that the celebrities involved could face penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment, if found guilty under the provisions of the Telangana Gaming Act 1974. The focus now is on the endorsement contracts, which could reveal deeper ties between the actors and the app companies.
The entertainment industry is now under scrutiny, with calls for regulatory guidelines to prevent celebrity endorsements of banned or unethical products. Industry bodies are likely to issue advisories to avoid further controversies.
Neither Rana Daggubati nor Vijay Devarakonda has issued an official statement as of now, but sources close to them claim they were unaware of the illegal status of the apps at the time of promotion.
The case continues to unfold, and further details are expected as police investigation progresses. This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibility of public figures in endorsing products and platforms that adhere to legal and ethical standards.
