The Telangana Crime Investigation Department (CID) has started a major investigation into the promotion of illegal online betting apps. Several celebrities, actors, and social media influencers are under scrutiny for allegedly advertising and supporting these platforms, which are believed to encourage illegal gambling, especially among young people.
According to officials, six betting apps are at the centre of the probe. These platforms are said to have attracted thousands of users by promising easy money through online games. Investigators believe that celebrity endorsements helped these apps gain popularity and made people, particularly students and young professionals, believe they were safe and legal.
During recent raids in different states, including Telangana, officials discovered electronic devices, financial records, and user details linked to the apps. Authorities say that these apps may have involved unlawful financial transactions and could even be linked to operations outside India.
The CID has issued notices to several well-known personalities and asked them to appear for questioning. Some actors have already met with investigators, submitted promotional contracts, and explained how they were hired to promote the apps. Some have claimed they were told the platforms were skill-based gaming apps and were not aware of their involvement in betting activities.
Officials said that promoting such apps can mislead the public and may be punishable by law if it supports illegal gambling. They also warned that young people are being drawn into addiction and losing large amounts of money through online betting.
Legal experts say public figures have a major responsibility, as people often trust their endorsements. They also advised celebrities to check the legality of products and services before appearing in advertisements.
The CID says the investigation is ongoing. More questioning and arrests could take place as they continue to track the financial links, app operators, and promoters involved in the case.
