Bengaluru: An arrest warrant was issued against former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa for allegedly committing Provident Fund (PF) fraud. The warrant, was issued by PF Regional Commissioner Shadakshari Gopal Reddy. It directed the Pulakeshinagar police in Bengaluru to take appropriate action against the cricketer, who also managed a private firm called Centuries Lifestyle Brand Private Limited.
He is accused of deducting PF contributions from employees’ salaries but failed to deposit the same, leading to an alleged fraud of Rs 23 lakh.
Commissioner Reddy instructed the police to execute the warrant in the letter issued on December 4. However, the warrant was returned to the PF office as the cricketer was not residing at his previous address.
The former Indian batsman and his family are reportedly staying in Dubai. According to the warrant, the failure to remit the dues prevented the PF office from settling the accounts of the affected employees. Uthappa had represented India in 59 international matches. He was a prominent player in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He played for Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Mumbai Indians.
Authorities are now trying to trace Uthappa and ensure legal compliance.
