V. C. Sajjanar, Hyderabad Police Commissioner, has raised questions about former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan‘s status as role models in the sport.The IPS officer, known for his firm stance against betting apps, criticised the former cricketers after the Enforcement Directorate seized their assets worth Rs 11.14 crore during an investigation into betting platforms. “What kind of celebrities are these people?” asked the police Commissioner in a post on X.“Due to addiction to the betting epidemic, countless young people are destroying their lives with their own hands. Thousands have committed suicide. Aren’t these individuals responsible for all of this, having promoted the betting demon that is tearing society apart?“Speak a few good words for the good of society and to help the youth reach higher positions. That’s all, but do not mislead those who admire you and take their lives.”The ED attached mutual fund investments of Rs 6.64 crore belonging to Raina and an immovable property worth Rs 4.5 crore owned by Dhawan.The investigation focuses on illegal offshore betting platforms, including 1xBet and its surrogate brands 1xBat and 1xBat Sporting Lines, based on multiple FIRs filed by various state police agencies.The ED reported that both cricketers had entered into endorsement agreements with foreign entities promoting 1xBet’s surrogate brands.Sajjanar, a 1996-batch IPS officer, has been actively campaigning against online betting and gambling apps, describing them as organised crime. During his tenure as Managing Director of Telangana State Road Transport Corporation, he advocated for holding celebrities and influencers responsible for promoting betting apps.His campaign led to police action against several celebrities and social media influencers who promoted betting apps.Sajjanar believes that public figures bear direct responsibility for promoting betting apps, as people trust and follow their endorsements.The police have taken action against multiple celebrities, including social media influencers, for their involvement in promoting these betting platforms.
