Popular actor Tamannaah Bhatia has been summoned by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell for questioning in connection with the illegal streaming of IPL 2023 matches on the Fairplay app, a subsidiary of the Mahadev betting app.

According to news reports, Bhatia is alleged to have promoted the viewing of IPL matches on the app. The broadcaster, Viacom, reportedly filed a complaint citing financial losses due to the illegal streaming.

Bhatia is not the first celebrity to be linked to this case. Singer Badshah and the managers of actors Sanjay Dutt and Jacqueline Fernandez have also been questioned by the Cyber Cell.

Here’s what we know so far about Tamannaah:

• Allegation: Bhatia is suspected of promoting the Fairplay app, which is linked to the illegal streaming of IPL matches.
• Status: Bhatia has been summoned for questioning on April 29th, 2024.
• Importance: This case highlights the ongoing battle against illegal streaming and its connections to online betting activities.

Key Points:

• Date of Summons: Tamannaah Bhatia is expected to appear before the Maharashtra Cyber investigating officer on April 29.
• Loss to Viacom 18: The actor’s alleged promotion of viewing IPL matches on the FairPlay app without official broadcasting rights resulted in significant financial losses for Viacom 18, which holds the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for streaming IPL matches.
• Other Celebrities Involved: In addition to Tamannaah Bhatia, rapper and singer Badshah was also questioned in the same case. Actor Sanjay Dutt was summoned earlier this week but has sought additional time to appear before the department¹.

What to Watch Out For:

• The outcome of Bhatia’s questioning by the Cyber Cell.
• Whether further charges will be pressed against the actor.
• Developments in the investigation of the illegal streaming operation.

This case is a reminder of the importance of responsible celebrity endorsements and the potential consequences of promoting services that might be involved in illegal activities.