ED to quiz actors Mimi Chakraborty & Urvashi Rautela in betting case

NEW DELHI: Taking forward its investigation against celebrities endorsing illegal online betting and gambling platforms, ED has summoned ex-TMC MP Mimi Chakraborty on Monday and actor Urvashi Rautela on Tuesday to record their statements in connection with their alleged association with 1xBet betting app.The two actors were asked to appear days after ED questioned two cricketing stars - Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina - for allegedly endorsing the 1xBet app, as part of the same case. ED is also looking into the role of social media platforms, including Meta and Google, in allegedly hosting these apps and promoting them through advertisements. Some of these apps have also been advertised on Facebook and Instagram. Dhawan appeared for questioning before ED here on Sept 4, while Raina was questioned on Aug 13, regarding endorsement fees they got from 1xBet. Sources said the two had received money in return for endorsing the platform despite knowing that betting is illegal in India."The investigation is related to promoters and their associates who are running these illegal online betting apps and also aims to gather their contact details in India," a senior official said. The mode of payment and accounts used to transfer the money are part of the information the agency has sought from the cricketers.