Anchor Shyamala in Trouble as Betting App Case Reaches HC

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In a recent development, anchor and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) spokesperson Shyamala Reddy has approached the Telangana High Court seeking to quash a FIR filed against her for allegedly promoting betting applications on social media platforms. ​

According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, the Panjagutta police registered the FIR on March 17, following a complaint by Vinay Vagala. The complainant alleged that several mobile applications and websites were promoting illegal gambling, violating the Public Gambling Act of 1876. ​

In response, Shyamala filed a petition in the Telangana High Court challenging the FIR and seeking its dismissal. She contended that the allegations were baseless and lacked substantial evidence linking her to the alleged betting activities. Shyamala asserted that the FIR was an abuse of legal process, initiated without any substantial evidence, and possibly intended to damage her political career. ​

During the hearing, Justice N. Tukaramji directed the Panjagutta police to adhere to Section 35 of the BNSS (equivalent to Section 41A of the Criminal Procedure Code) during the investigation. The court instructed Shyamala to cooperate with the investigation officer and appear before the Punjagutta police on Monday. The judge emphasized that the police must follow proper procedures and guidelines established by the apex court while investigating the case. ​

Shyamala’s counsel argued that the FIR was politically motivated, aiming to tarnish her reputation. They claimed that the allegations in the complaint did not constitute an offense and that the case lacked documentary and oral evidence. Additionally, no aggrieved person had come forward with allegations against her. 

The FIR against Shyamala is part of a broader crackdown on celebrities and social media influencers allegedly promoting betting apps. The Panjagutta police have booked 11 social media influencers and anchors for promoting betting apps on social media platforms. The accused include Shyamala, Vishnupriya, Suprita, Ritu Chowdhury, Harshasai, Tasty Teja, Pareshan Boys Imran, Kiran Goud, Ajay, and Sudheer. ​

Furthermore, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated investigations into Tollywood actors and social media influencers for endorsing illegal betting apps. The actors will face proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act based on predicate offenses by Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam police.

The High Court has directed the police to record Shyamala’s statement as part of the investigation and ensure compliance with legal procedures.

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