The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued summons to actress Urvashi Rautela and former parliamentarian Mimi Chakraborty as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering connected to the online betting platform 1xBet. The development adds to a growing list of public figures questioned in relation to the case, including well-known cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina.

ED’s Investigation into Online Betting Platform

The probe centers on financial transactions linked to 1xBet, an online betting application that has come under scrutiny for suspected violations of money laundering laws. Authorities are examining whether promotional activities involving celebrities may have indirectly contributed to the platform’s reach and financial operations.

Summons Issued to Celebrities

Urvashi Rautela and Mimi Chakraborty have now been asked to appear before investigators for questioning. Their names join a list of high-profile individuals who have been summoned in recent weeks, highlighting the wide scope of the inquiry. Cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina were also previously called by the agency in connection with the same matter.

Focus on Promotional Endorsements

Investigators are reportedly looking into whether promotional endorsements or appearances by celebrities played a role in boosting the visibility of 1xBet among users. While no allegations of wrongdoing have been confirmed against those summoned, their association with promotional campaigns has drawn regulatory attention as part of efforts to trace financial flows linked to the platform.

Money Laundering Concerns

The ED’s inquiry is being conducted under provisions of India’s money laundering laws, which empower authorities to track funds suspected of being routed through illegal channels. Online betting platforms have often been flagged for potential misuse due to their digital nature and cross-border operations, making them a focus area for financial regulators.

Growing Scrutiny on Digital Platforms

This case reflects a broader trend of increased oversight on digital platforms that operate in sectors such as gaming, betting, and financial services. Regulators are paying closer attention to how these platforms engage with users, particularly when celebrity endorsements are involved, given their influence on public participation.

The summons issued to Urvashi Rautela and Mimi Chakraborty underline the expanding scope of the ED’s investigation into 1xBet. While no final conclusions have yet been drawn, the questioning of prominent personalities indicates that authorities are determined to examine every aspect of the platform’s operations and associations. The outcome of this probe could set an important precedent for how celebrity endorsements tied to digital platforms are scrutinized in future investigations.