The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint before a Special Court in Bengaluru against Gameskraft Technologies, RummyTime Technologies Pvt. Ltd., their founders, directors, and other associated persons in an alleged online real-money rummy money laundering case. The action has been taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The complaint names Vikas Taneja, Prithvi Raj Singh, and Deepak Singh Ahlawat, among others, as accused.
According to the ED, the investigation was initiated on the basis of multiple FIRs registered in Telangana alleging that the companies operating online real-money rummy platforms had cheated users. The agency said it carried out a detailed investigation into the financial transactions and operational practices of the platforms after gathering preliminary evidence.
The ED has alleged that the companies operated several online real-money gaming platforms, including RummyCulture, RummyPrime, Playship Rummy, and RummyTime. According to the agency, these platforms charged commissions ranging from 10% to 15% on players’ stakes. The investigation allegedly uncovered several practices that resulted in unfair treatment of users.
The agency further alleged that RummyCulture used bots—automated computer programs or algorithms—to play against unsuspecting users. According to the ED, this created the impression that users were competing against genuine human players, whereas the actual gameplay may have been different. Investigators claim that such practices significantly increased the likelihood of financial losses for players.
The ED also alleged that the companies extensively used promotional schemes such as bonuses, referral incentives, and “Instant Cash” rewards to attract new users and encourage existing players to continue wagering larger amounts. In addition, the agency claimed that withdrawal restrictions and various charges made it difficult for users to access their winnings or deposited funds.
According to the ED, these alleged deceptive business practices caused substantial financial losses and mental distress to a large number of users. The agency estimates the proceeds of crime in the case at approximately ₹19,984 crore, based on its analysis of financial transactions and other evidence collected during the investigation.
As part of the probe, the ED has also taken action against assets allegedly linked to the accused and associated entities. The agency said it has attached, seized, or frozen assets worth approximately ₹2,401 crore, including both movable and immovable properties as well as financial assets. The investigation into these assets is continuing.
The prosecution complaint filed before the Special Court includes documentary evidence, financial records, and other materials collected during the investigation. The court will now decide whether to take cognisance of the complaint, issue summons to the accused, and initiate further judicial proceedings under the provisions of the PMLA.
The allegations made by the ED are yet to be tested in court, and the guilt or innocence of the accused will be determined through the judicial process based on the evidence presented during trial. The case is being closely watched as it raises significant questions about transparency, consumer protection, and regulatory compliance in India’s online real-money gaming industry.
