The Enforcement Directorate has called former TMC MP and actress Mimi Chakraborty and Bollywood actor Urvashi Rautela for questioning. The summons come as part of a growing probe into illegal online betting apps, notably 1xBet, over allegations of money laundering and tax evasion.
When they need to appear
Mimi Chakraborty has been asked to depose on September 15 at the ED’s Delhi headquarters. Urvashi Rautela is set to appear a day later, on September 16, under the same investigation.
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Link with other celebrities
This isn’t the first time public figures have been dragged into this case. Cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina have already been questioned in recent weeks for their endorsement deals connected to betting platforms. The ED is examining how endorsements were structured, how payments were made, whether taxes were paid, and whether these promotional campaigns helped to normalize illegal bets.
What the investigation is looking into
Officials are investigating multiple illegal betting platforms for alleged violations of laws including the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. They are also checking compliance under the Information Technology Act and the Foreign Exchange Management Act. The key question is whether celebrities gave legitimacy to these apps through endorsements—even if indirectly—and if they understood the full nature of the business.
Why this matters
This case is shining a light on how online betting platforms have operated in the shadows, often using celebrity influence to spread reach and trust. It raises serious questions about regulation, accountability, and the responsibility of public figures when associating with businesses that may run afoul of the law. The outcomes could reshape how endorsements are regulated going forward.