Betting apps case: Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, and Vijay Devarakonda issue statements, say their endorsements were legal

In a statement issued through his public relations team, Rana Daggubati said he entered into a contract with a company to act as a brand ambassador for skill-based games, which expired in 2017. “After a careful legal review, he agreed to endorse the platform, ensuring full compliance with the law. His endorsement was strictly limited to regions where online skill-based games were legally permitted,” said the statement.

“It is essential to highlight these online games have been recognized by the Supreme Court of India as distinct from gambling. The Court has ruled that these games are based on skill, not chance, and are therefore legally allowed.”

Another Tollywood icon Vijay Devarakonda also issued a statement, saying he has promoted skill-based games only, and that those companies are operating legally. “Vijay Deverakonda is limited to areas where online skill-based games are permitted as an advertiser. Vijay worked as a brand ambassador for a company called A23, which has such a permit. The Honourable Supreme Court has stated many times in the past that Rummy is a skill-based game,” his PR team said in a statement.

“Vijay Deverakonda’s contract with a company called A23 ended last year. Now Vijay has no connection with that company,” it added.

Meanwhile, actor Prakash Raj issued a video on social media and requested youngsters not to fall into the trap of illegal betting and gaming apps. “I would also like to clarify that I have done one project with a firm in 2016, but after realising its motive I withdrew from it and did not extend the contract in 2017. In 2021, too, when another firm took over the firm and they used the same commercial, I issued notices to them, and they stopped using the commercial,” Prakash Raj said, adding that he was ready to cooperate with the police investigation.

The police said they received a complaint about illegal betting apps or casino applications, which lured young adults and the general public to make easy money and eventually lead them into complete financial and psychological breakdowns. “These platforms are encouraging the public, especially people in dire need of money, to invest their hard-earned and family money into those apps/websites and slowly get addicted to them, leading to total financial collapse,” according to the FIR.

In a statement, G Vineeth, DCP, Madhapur, said, “The case is presently under investigation. As per the Telangana Gaming Act 2017, any kind of online betting is prohibited”.