Vijay Deverakonda Appears Before ED in Hyderabad in Connection with Online Betting App Investigation

Popular actor Vijay Deverakonda appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at its Basheerbagh office in Hyderabad on Wednesday, August 6, as part of an ongoing inquiry into the promotion of unauthorized online betting platforms.

Deverakonda is one of 29 individuals summoned under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The investigation revolves around whether celebrities and digital influencers knowingly endorsed online betting apps disguised as harmless entertainment or charitable ventures—possibly in violation of legal frameworks.

According to sources within the ED, Deverakonda’s testimony will be reviewed alongside other statements and digital evidence gathered from earlier rounds of questioning involving actors, influencers, and content creators.

The broader investigation is based on multiple FIRs filed across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, focusing on the promotion of unregulated gambling platforms. The enforcement agency is examining the possibility of a coordinated promotional network that involved several well-known public figures from various media sectors.

Previously, on July 30, veteran actor Prakash Raj was also questioned. He later clarified that the matter dated back to 2016, adding that he hadn’t received any financial compensation and that he was fully cooperating with the authorities. He also dismissed any political angles to his appearance.

Meanwhile, several other celebrities summoned have responded in different ways. Rana Daggubati has asked for a new date to appear before the ED, while Manchu Lakshmi is expected to attend the hearing on August 13.

The ED’s ongoing investigation aims to determine whether these celebrity-endorsed promotions were isolated deals or part of a systematic effort to mislead users through high-profile campaigns.