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Cricketers Raina & Dhawan Face Scrutiny Over Betting App Endorsements: Police Commissioner Questions Role Model Status
NEW DELHI – Former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan are under public scrutiny following an investigation into illegal betting platforms. Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar has openly questioned their status as role models in the sport.
Sajjanar, an IPS officer known for his strong stance against betting apps, criticized the former cricketers after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized assets worth Rs 11.14 crore during a probe into betting operations.
The Controversy Unfolds: Cricketers Under Scrutiny
The Hyderabad Police Commissioner expressed his dismay on X (formerly Twitter), asking, “What kind of celebrities are these people?”
He highlighted the devastating impact of betting addiction, noting that “countless young people are destroying their lives with their own hands. Thousands have committed suicide.”
Sajjanar firmly believes that individuals promoting “the betting demon” are responsible for tearing society apart. He urged public figures to use their influence positively.
“Speak a few good words for the good of society and to help the youth reach higher positions,” he stated, adding, “but do not mislead those who admire you and take their lives.”
ED’s Investigation and Asset Seizure
The Enforcement Directorate’s investigation revealed significant financial ties. The ED attached mutual fund investments belonging to Suresh Raina, valued at Rs 6.64 crore.
Similarly, an immovable property owned by Shikhar Dhawan, worth Rs 4.5 crore, was also attached as part of the ongoing probe.
The Nexus with Illegal Betting Platforms
The investigation primarily focuses on illegal offshore betting platforms, including 1xBet and its surrogate brands like 1xBat and 1xBat Sporting Lines.
These actions stem from multiple FIRs filed by various state police agencies. The ED confirmed that both cricketers had entered into endorsement agreements with foreign entities promoting these surrogate brands of 1xBet.
The Broader Fight Against Online Betting
V. C. Sajjanar, a 1996-batch IPS officer, has been a vocal and active campaigner against online betting and gambling apps, labeling them as organized crime.
During his tenure as Managing Director of Telangana State Road Transport Corporation, he strongly advocated for holding celebrities and influencers accountable for promoting such platforms.
His relentless campaign has led to police action against numerous celebrities and social media influencers found promoting betting apps across different states.
Celebrities’ Responsibility in Focus
Sajjanar firmly believes that public figures carry a direct responsibility when endorsing products or services, especially betting apps. This is because people trust and often emulate the choices of those they admire.
The police’s actions underscore a growing push to ensure that influencers understand the profound impact of their endorsements. Key aspects of this campaign include:
- Holding Promoters Accountable: Direct police action against celebrities and influencers.
- Highlighting Societal Harm: Emphasizing the link between betting promotion and devastating social consequences.
- Advocating for Ethical Endorsements: Encouraging public figures to consider the welfare of their followers.
Conclusion: A Call for Responsible Influence
The scrutiny faced by Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan highlights a critical conversation about the ethical responsibilities of celebrities. As public figures, their endorsements carry significant weight, impacting the choices and lives of their fans, particularly the youth.
Police Commissioner Sajjanar’s strong message serves as a reminder that fame comes with a duty to act responsibly, especially when it comes to issues with profound societal implications like online betting.
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