Vijay Deverakonda: South Superstar’s ED Interrogation – The Inside Story

Vijay Deverakonda ED Inquiry

The Telugu film industry, often seen as a world of glitz and glamour, is now under a cloud as some of its biggest stars—including the charismatic Vijay Deverakonda—find themselves facing the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The allegations? Promoting illegal online betting platforms and possible links to money laundering. Let’s break down everything you need to know about Vijay Deverakonda’s ED inquiry, separating fact from rumor, and understand the wider impact on fans and the film fraternity.

What Sparked the ED Investigation?

The ED probe is rooted in multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by the Telangana Police. These FIRs named a group of 29 celebrities, including actors like Prakash Raj, Rana Daggubati, Lakshmi Manchu, and Vijay Deverakonda. The charge? Promoting online betting apps—many of which are now under scrutiny for allegedly serving as fronts for illegal gambling operations and laundering crores of rupees.

Timeline:

• July 30, 2025: Actor Prakash Raj appears before the ED.
• August 6, 2025: Vijay Deverakonda is summoned and faces four hours of questioning at the Hyderabad zonal office.
• Other big names, including Rana Daggubati, are summoned for future dates.

What Are the Exact Allegations?

According to official sources and investigation summaries, the celebrities allegedly promoted betting and gaming apps through digital advertisements and endorsements. These promotions, which reached millions of fans, are believed to have contributed to illegal betting activity and the movement of large sums of money via dubious channels.

Points:

• Suspicion of Money Laundering: The ED suspects funds generated from illegal betting were laundered with the help of celebrity endorsements.
• Online Betting vs. Skill Gaming: Many actors, including Vijay Deverakonda, have clarified that they endorsed only skill-based, government-approved gaming platforms, not illegal betting apps. They emphasize that these apps are geo-restricted and legal only in territories where state governments permit them.
• Legal Grounds: The investigation is being carried out under several Indian laws, including the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Information Technology Act.

Vijay Deverakonda’s Stand: What Did He Say?

Emerging from the ED’s office after hours of questioning, Vijay Deverakonda was candid with the media:

• He explained his involvement was strictly limited to endorsing a skill-based gaming platform called A23, not an illegal betting or gambling app.
• Deverakonda’s legal team ensured the contract was in compliance with all legal standards. His association with A23 ended in 2023.
• The actor provided all required documents to the ED—account details, contract papers, and transaction records.
• He underlined that such gaming apps are legal, licensed, pay GST and TDS, and are not available in states where they are prohibited.
• He stressed, “The government and the courts decide what is right and what is wrong,” demonstrating full cooperation and faith in the judicial process.

Why Are So Many Celebrities Involved?

ED’s investigation covers not just actors but also influencers and social media personalities—29 in total. Allegedly, these personalities were paid endorsement fees to promote apps like Junglee Rummy, JeetWin, and Lotus365. Some celebrities asserted that they neither knew about the illegal operations of these apps nor promoted them for criminal activity. They have claimed innocence, stating their promotions were strictly professional, legal deals.

Industry Impact: Reputation Under Challenge

The case puts a spotlight on how celebrity influence is used to push both legal and illegal online platforms. It also raises pressing questions:

• Are endorsements being fairly vetted by celebrities and their management?
• How transparent are such deals regarding legality and ethical considerations?

The ED is methodically tracking digital trails and financial transactions tied to these promotions. The outcome could set a precedent on how endorsements are approached by public figures in the future, possibly leading to more stringent laws and disclosures.

Vijay Deverakonda: The Man Behind the Headlines

Born and raised in Hyderabad, Vijay Deverakonda made his mark with films like “Arjun Reddy” and “Geetha Govindam,” becoming one of India‘s most bankable young stars. Known for his rebellious on-screen persona and real-life candor, Vijay’s involvement in the case has surprised fans. He maintains his innocence, emphasizing his commitment to ethical conduct and societal responsibility.

What Happens Next?

The ED will continue questioning celebrities and reviewing financial records. Legal experts predict that unless direct evidence emerges of wilful involvement in illegal betting or money laundering, most celebrities—including Deverakonda—may eventually be cleared after due process. Still, this case is a reminder for all public figures to exercise caution in their brand partnerships.

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