Popular actress Tamannaah Bhatia has been summoned by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell in connection with her alleged promotion of the Fairplay app, a subsidiary of the controversial Mahadev online gaming and betting platform. Bhatia is required to appear before the cyber cell next week to provide a statement as a witness.
According to an extensive report by NDTV, the investigation revolves around accusations that the Fairplay app facilitated illegal betting on Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket matches. A broadcaster filed a complaint against the app for streaming IPL matches illegally. This development adds to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the Mahadev app, which has been under the radar of law enforcement agencies for over a year.
Fairplay functions as a betting exchange platform, offering a range of sports and entertainment gambling options. Its website prominently features Cricket, Football, and Tennis as popular categories. Notably, the platform provides live streaming of sports matches, enticing users with the opportunity to “watch and win at the same time.”
However, the association between Fairplay and its parent app, Mahadev, raises significant concerns. Mahadev has gained infamy for providing platforms for illegal betting on various live games, including cricket, poker, and card games. Last year, actors Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor, who endorsed Mahadev in advertisements, were summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning regarding the app’s activities.
The summoning of Tamannaah Bhatia highlights the widening scope of the investigation into the alleged illegal activities of these online betting platforms. As the case unfolds, it underscores the need for stricter regulations and enforcement measures to curb the proliferation of illegal online gambling in India.
