I promoted only legal skill games, not betting apps, Vijay Deverakonda tells ED

Hyderabad: Actor Vijay Deverakonda on Wednesday clarified that he endorsed only a legal gaming app, not an illegal betting platform.

Vijay Devarakonda was questioned for over four hours by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Hyderabad in connection with a probe into celebrities promoting online betting apps.

‘Gaming is Legal, Betting is Not’

Speaking to reporters after the questioning, Vijay Deverakonda drew a clear line between gaming and betting apps.

“Gaming apps are legal, recognised by the government, and licensed as businesses. There is a clear difference,” he said, and added that the ED summoned him regarding a gaming app he had endorsed.

Submitted financial details to ED

The actor also confirmed that he furnished complete details regarding his endorsement deal, bank transactions and company records as sought by the agency.

“I provided all the information they asked for. I believe they were satisfied,” he noted.

Geo-restrictions based on State Laws

On why the app was not accessible in Telangana, Deverakonda explained that legal apps often have geo-location locks. “These apps work only in states where they are permitted. In Telangana, users receive a message saying access is restricted,” he explained.

Prakash Raj questioned earlier

Deverakonda is the second actor to appear before the ED in this case. Actor Prakash Raj was questioned on July 30 and told officials that he did one advertisement for a gaming app in 2016 but did not accept any payment.

More actors under ED scanner

The ED has summoned other actors, including Rana Daggubati and Manchu Lakshmi. Rana has been asked to appear on August 11, while Lakshmi is to appear on August 13.

ED probes 29 celebrities in app endorsement row

The ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against 29 celebrities, including actors, YouTubers, and influencers, for allegedly endorsing illegal betting platforms.

The action follows five FIRs filed in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Actors named in the case include Nidhi Agarwal, Pranitha Subhash and Ananya Nagella, among others.

Skill-based gaming, not gambling: actors’ stand

Both Vijay Deverakonda and Rana Daggubati have maintained that they promoted only skill-based, legal gaming platforms, not apps involved in gambling or betting.