In a high-profile development, India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has officially summoned former cricketers Robin Uthappa and Yuvraj Singh, along with actor Sonu Sood, in relation to a money laundering investigation tied to the online betting platform 1xBet. The summons fall under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The timings are set for next week: Uthappa is asked to appear on September 22, Yuvraj Singh on September 23, and Sonu Sood on September 24. 

The probe has already involved other public figures: former cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan have given statements, and actors Mimi Chakraborty and Ankush Hazra have also been questioned. Meanwhile, Urvashi Rautela who was appointed as a brand ambassador for 1xBet has been summoned but has not yet appeared.

The case concerns allegations that such betting apps duped investors of large sums and evaded regulatory oversight, including taxes. Authorities claim these apps may be operating illegally and engaging in financial misdeeds. 

This move underscores increasing scrutiny of celebrity endorsements and the responsibilities that come when public figures are linked to contentious or allegedly unlawful businesses. The outcomes may send a message about accountability.