The Maharashtra Police Cyber Cell has summoned prominent rapper Badshah for questioning regarding his association with the online betting app FairPlay. As per reports by India Today, an FIR was lodged against Badshah, along with 40 other actors, on allegations of promoting Indian Premier League (IPL) match-watching on the said betting app.
The Maharashtra cyber police have been actively recording Badshah’s statement. The rapper was seen arriving at the World Trade Centre building in Cuffe Parade on Monday. This development is part of an ongoing investigation into digital piracy, and it is expected that more actors may be summoned in connection with the case.
The roots of this case trace back to Viacom 18, which held the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) to stream IPL matches. However, these matches were reportedly streamed illegally on the FairPlay app, and certain actors allegedly promoted this content. Celebrities including Sanjay Dutt, Ranbir Kapoor, Huma Qureshi, Kapil Sharma, and Shraddha Kapoor were among those summoned in relation to the case.
Speaking about the situation earlier this month, an ED (Enforcement Directorate) source mentioned, “Ranbir Kapoor has been summoned to understand the betting business transactions. At this point, he has not been summoned as an accused, but his questioning is vital to comprehend his knowledge about the sources of funds he received. It will likely shed light on the promoters’ plans and their involvement. Ranbir Kapoor may not be part of a conspiracy, but his insights are crucial to understanding the alleged scam.”
The FairPlay app is reportedly linked to the Mahadev app, promoted by Ravi Uppal and Sourabh Chandrakar. Presently, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating the Mahadev Book app for potential money laundering activities.
In February of this year, various celebrities, including Suniel Shetty, Sanjay Dutt, and Tiger Shroff, were reported to have attended Sourabh’s wedding in the United Arab Emirates.
The Mahadev app case revolves around illegal betting on various online games such as poker, card games, chance games, badminton, tennis, football, and cricket. The app is believed to be operated by Dubai-based Saurabh and Ravi Uppal. While betting is legal in Dubai, it is prohibited in India, raising concerns about the app’s activities and the involvement of several prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
This investigation represents another facet of the ongoing struggle against online betting and piracy in India, as authorities seek to enforce legal boundaries in the digital landscape.
Sources By Agencies
