Illegal Betting App Case: ED Summons Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan

1xBet

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan on Thursday for questioning in connection with a money laundering probe linked to the betting app 1xBet.

Dhawan, 39, will appear before investigators as his statement is to be recorded under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The federal agency is examining his alleged association with the app, which has been declared “illegal” in India.

According to sources, the left-handed opener came under the agency’s scanner after his name surfaced in connection with endorsements tied to the platform. Officials are keen to understand the extent of his links with the betting company and the nature of any financial transactions involved.

Wider Probe Into Betting Apps

The ED has been pursuing multiple cases related to illegal betting and gaming apps, several of which have allegedly duped thousands of users of large sums or evaded substantial taxes. The investigations are spread across states and involve networks suspected of laundering crores of rupees.

Last month, another former India cricketer, Suresh Raina, was also questioned in the same probe. His statement was recorded to determine whether promotional activities linked him to the app’s operations.

Government Crackdown On Real-Money Gaming

The summons comes against the backdrop of a wider crackdown on online betting and gaming platforms. The Union government recently brought in legislation banning real-money online gaming, citing concerns over addiction, financial fraud, and unlawful offshore betting practices.

Dhawan, one of India’s most successful limited-overs batsmen, retired from international cricket earlier this year. While he is not accused of direct involvement in the betting racket, the ED wants clarity on his endorsement deals and whether these inadvertently lent legitimacy to the platform.

The questioning is expected to focus on contract details, financial transactions, and communications between Dhawan or his representatives and the app’s promoters.

Ongoing Investigation

The probe into 1xBet is part of a larger effort to dismantle betting syndicates that allegedly channel funds through complex routes, including hawala operators and shell companies. Authorities believe that money siphoned off these apps is not only evading taxes but also finding its way into other unlawful activities.