Tamannaah Bhatia, the celebrated actor known for her roles in “Baahubali” and “Lust Stories 2,” finds herself embroiled in controversy as she faces a summons from the Maharashtra Cyber Cell. Summoned in connection with the illegal streaming of Indian Premier League (IPL) matches on the FairPlay betting app, Bhatia is slated to appear before the cyber cell on April 29, 2024, to provide her statement.
Allegations and Summons by Maharashtra Cyber Cell
The summons to Tamannaah Bhatia follows allegations of promoting the viewing of IPL matches on the FairPlay app, a subsidiary of the Mahadev online gaming and betting application. As per sources, certain IPL matches were unlawfully streamed on the app, prompting a swift investigation by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell. Alongside Bhatia, other notable figures connected to the case include singer Badshah and the managers of actors Sanjay Dutt and Jacqueline Fernandez, who have already provided their statements to the authorities.
Viacom’s FIR and Financial Implications
The origins of the investigation can be traced back to Viacom18’s filing of an FIR, alleging the unauthorized streaming of IPL matches on the FairPlay app. Viacom18, which holds the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for streaming IPL matches, incurred substantial financial losses amounting to over Rs 100 crore due to the illegal streaming activities. The FIR marked the beginning of a legal battle against digital piracy, prompting regulatory agencies to dig deeper into the intricate networks of illegal streaming platforms.
FairPlay Betting App: Gateway to Illegal Streaming
FairPlay, marketed as a betting exchange platform, offers a diverse range of sports and entertainment gambling options. Cricket emerges as the most favoured sport on FairPlay, closely followed by football and tennis. However, recent revelations have exposed FairPlay’s darker side, linking it to illegal streaming activities that have raised concerns regarding digital piracy and ethical integrity.
Connection to Mahadev Online Gaming App
FairPlay’s association with the Mahadev online gaming app further complicates the investigation. Mahadev, notorious for providing platforms for illegal betting in various live games, including cricket, poker, badminton, tennis, and football card games, has come under intense scrutiny for its role in facilitating unauthorized streaming. The complex web of connections between FairPlay and Mahadev underscores the challenges faced by regulatory authorities in combating digital piracy and online gambling.
Investigations Uncover Money Laundering Allegations
The probe into the Mahadev online gaming app has revealed startling allegations of money laundering and financial irregularities. Operated by individuals from Dubai with roots in Chhattisgarh’s Bhilai, the app allegedly amassed proceeds of crime amounting to approximately Rs 6,000 crore. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been actively investigating the case for over a year, implicating high-ranking politicians and bureaucrats from Chhattisgarh in the process. The ED’s scrutiny highlights the need for stringent measures to combat money laundering and illicit online activities.
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Tamannaah Bhatia’s summons in the IPL streaming probe underscores the gravity of the allegations surrounding illegal activities on the FairPlay app. As the investigation unfolds, the interconnectedness between FairPlay, Mahadev online gaming, and the financial repercussions for companies like Viacom18 sheds light on the complexities of regulating digital platforms. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ethical responsibilities of celebrities and the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks to address emerging challenges in the digital domain.
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