Former Trinamool Congress MP and popular actor Mimi Chakraborty appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday for questioning in a money-laundering investigation tied to the alleged illegal betting app 1xBet. The 36-year-old, known for her roles in Bengali cinema and her brief stint in politics, underwent an extensive interrogation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to clarify her connections to the app through endorsements and financial dealings.
ED officials are delving into Chakraborty's role in promoting 1xBet, which is accused of operating illegally in India, defrauding investors, and evading substantial taxes. The probe extends to multiple celebrities and sportspersons allegedly involved with such platforms, as these apps have reportedly scammed crores from users. Chakraborty's statement is crucial for the agency to map out the network of influencers and endorsers who may have unwittingly or knowingly aided the app's proliferation.
This case is part of a broader crackdown on illegal online betting operations that have mushroomed in India. Former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan were previously summoned by the ED for similar inquiries. Adding to the list, Bollywood actor Urvashi Rautela, who serves as 1xBet's Indian ambassador, and Bengali actor Ankush Hazra are scheduled to appear before the agency on Tuesday. More high-profile figures from sports and entertainment are anticipated to be questioned soon, as the investigation uncovers deeper layers of involvement.
Also Read: ED Summons Mimi Chakraborty, Urvashi Rautela in 1xBet Scam Probe
1xBet, established 18 years ago, brands itself as a global bookmaker offering bets on thousands of events in 70 languages. However, in India, it operates in a legal gray area, contributing to the government's recent ban on real-money online gaming through new legislation. Market analysts estimate the Indian online betting sector at over USD 100 billion, expanding at 30% annually, with approximately 22 crore users—half of whom are active participants. Probe agencies and firms highlight the risks of addiction, financial loss, and money laundering associated with these platforms.
The Union government has been proactive, issuing 1,524 blocking orders from 2022 to June 2025 to curb online betting and gambling sites. This surge in enforcement reflects growing concerns over the unregulated digital gambling ecosystem preying on vulnerable users, often through celebrity endorsements that lend credibility. Chakraborty's involvement has drawn particular attention, given her transition from stardom to politics as a TMC MP before resigning in 2024.
As the ED intensifies its efforts, the case could lead to significant revelations about the nexus between influencers, illegal apps, and illicit funds. Legal experts suggest that while endorsements alone may not constitute direct liability, any financial transactions or awareness of illegality could implicate participants under PMLA. The ongoing probe serves as a stark reminder of the perils of associating with unverified online platforms, potentially reshaping how celebrities engage with digital endorsements in India.
Also Read: ED Summons Mimi Chakraborty, Urvashi Rautela in 1xBet Scam Probe