Actress Tamannaah Bhatia faces summons by Maharashtra Cyber Police due to her alleged involvement in promoting Fairplay, an app connected to illegal streaming of IPL matches. Viacom 18 claims losses of ₹100 crore due to unauthorized broadcasts. Investigations reveal funds from shell companies used to pay celebrities for endorsements. Bhatia joins a list of over 40 celebrities under scrutiny in the case.
The actress has been summoned to appear before the Cyber Cell for questioning on April 29th.
The Allegations Against Tamannaah Bhatia
In a case filed by Viacom 18, it’s claimed that Tamannaah Bhatia and other actors endorsed Fairplay, which displayed live IPL 2023 matches without the required permissions. According to officials, these celebrities accepted bets on gaming apps linked to the matches, further complicating the situation.
The broadcasting company asserts losses of around ₹100 crore due to these illegal broadcasts. Viacom 18’s anti-piracy team discovered that Fairplay streamed Tata IPL matches from March 31, 2023, to April 7, 2023, without authorization.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is delving into the Mahadev betting app case, revealing a web of financial transactions involving shell companies. Celebrities like Bhatia were allegedly paid to endorse these apps. Over 40 celebrities, including Bhatia, are under scrutiny for promoting Fairplay during IPL 2023.
Sanjay Dutt and Others Summoned
Actor Sanjay Dutt was recently summoned in connection with the same case. Statements from people linked to Dutt, Jacqueline Fernandez, and rapper Badshah have been recorded. They’re accused of promoting the betting app and directing viewers to use it for watching matches.
Tamannaah Bhatia is expected to appear before the Maharashtra Cyber Police on April 29 for questioning. The agency aims to record her statement as a witness in the case. This development adds another layer to the ongoing investigation into illegal IPL streaming and celebrity endorsements of dubious apps.
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