Manchu Lakshmi ED Questioning: What Happened?

Manchu Lakshmi Questioned by ED in Betting App Investigation

Hyderabad, August 13, 2025 — In a significant development in the ongoing probe into illegal betting platforms, Tollywood actress and producer Manchu Lakshmi appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) today for questioning. The investigation, launched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), centers around celebrity endorsements of betting apps suspected to be operating outside legal boundaries.

Lakshmi arrived at the ED’s regional office in Basheerbagh around 10:30 AM, responding to a summons linked to her alleged promotional activities for a betting application. Officials are examining whether payments made to her were routed through unlawful channels and if her endorsements contributed to misleading users.

The case originated from multiple FIRs filed across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, including a complaint by businessman PM Phanindra Sarma at Miyapur Police Station. The complaint named 29 public figures, including actors, influencers, and YouTubers, for promoting betting platforms that may violate the Public Gambling Act of 1867.

Other celebrities who have been summoned include:

• Prakash Raj, who claimed he endorsed a gaming app in 2016 but refused payment.
• Vijay Deverakonda, who stated his association was with a legal skill-based gaming platform.
• Rana Daggubati, questioned about his earnings from a betting brand.

Sources within the ED confirmed that Lakshmi was asked to submit bank statements, contractual documents, and digital communication records related to her involvement with the app. Investigators are particularly focused on tracing the money trail and identifying any links to hawala transactions or offshore accounts.

The probe has sparked widespread debate over the ethical responsibilities of celebrities in endorsing digital platforms. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this investigation could lead to stricter regulations governing influencer marketing and app promotions in India.

As the ED continues to expand its inquiry, more names from the entertainment industry may surface. The agency has reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in digital endorsements.

Stay tuned to Neosouth for real-time updates on this developing story.