Karnataka High Court stays arrest warrant against Robin Uthappa in PF case

The warrant was originally issued regarding alleged fraud in EPF deposits of Centauries Lifestyle Brands Private Limited and two other companies where Uthappa had been a director. The regional Provident Fund Commissioner’s warrant mentioned that a default of Rs 23 lakh existed.

Uthappa’s lawyer presented arguments in the High Court, stating that he had resigned as a company director in 2020. The lawyer also contended that Uthappa had never been involved in the company’s operations, even while serving as a director. Therefore, he should not be considered an employer under the EPF Act.

Uthappa also issued a statement on December 21 stating that his position as a director in these companies was due to loans he had given them and that his schedule did not allow him to be involved in daily operations. He also stated that he had resigned from his directorships and initiated legal proceedings against the companies as the funds had not been repaid to him.

Uthappa played 59 international matches for India and represented several franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL).