Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has faced a severe scrutiny after the issuance of an arrest warrant in an alleged Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) fraud. According to sources, the regional provident fund commissioner has issued an arrest warrant for non-remittance of dues from companies associated with Uthappa. As a result, the settlement of PF accounts for such workers remained hindered.
They instructed Pulakeshinagar police station to carry out an arrest and produce Uthappa to the provident fund office by December 27, 2024.
Uthappa Explains His Position
In response, Robin Uthappa took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his side of the story. He clarified his association with the three implicated companies—Strawberry Lencería Pvt. Ltd., Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., and Berryz Fashion House.
“In 2018-19, I became a director in these companies due to financial contributions made in the form of loans. I was not doing any active executive role. I was not involved with the day-to-day workings of the company,” stated Uthappa.
He further added that his busy schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator did not leave him any time to handle the operations of the business. Uthappa added that he is not a director in any other businesses he has invested in.
Uthappa revealed that the companies had not repaid his loans and that he had filed legal cases against them. He also said that he had resigned from his directorships many years ago.
“When the Provident Fund authorities issued notices demanding dues, my legal team responded, highlighting my lack of involvement. We provided documentation from the companies confirming my non-participation in their operations,” he added.
Implications of the Case
The fraud allegations against the EPF center around unreceived dues that have left workers’ provident fund accounts locked. The provisions under the Income Tax Act and Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act form the basis of the warrant of arrest by the authorities.
Uthappa’s Cricketing Career
Robin Uthappa has prominently represented India in 59 matches across all formats and contributed to Kolkata Knight Riders’ 2014 IPL victory. He has also strengthened teams like Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.
Current Status
Uthappa is said to remain in Dubai, whereas he argued that he does not own or operate those companies over which the scam has raised its allegations. His defense team continues addressing the whole issue as this case further progresses. Hence, now, he continues to establish his innocence out of such a controversy and scandal.
The arrest warrant emphasizes the seriousness of compliance with EPF regulations and the implications for individuals associated with non-compliance.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on resolving the matter fairly, ensuring that affected workers receive their dues, and determining Uthappa’s exact role in the controversy.
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