India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has again summoned senior officials from Google and Meta. This is part of a widening investigation into digital advertisements for illegal betting and gambling platforms, according to The Times of India.
The ED had originally scheduled questioning for 21 July. However, representatives from both tech giants failed to appear. Now, the agency has instructed the executives to attend on 28 July. According to sources cited by the Press Trust of India (PTI), the companies requested more time to gather and submit the necessary documents. Once they appear, investigators are expected to record their statements under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The probe is examining how unauthorized gambling ads were approved and promoted on major digital platforms. Investigators believe these promotions helped drive traffic to illegal betting websites, some of which allegedly defrauded users. Moreover, authorities are investigating whether proceeds from these operations were laundered and if tax evasion occurred.
In addition to targeting tech platforms, the ED also plans to question more than two dozen Indian celebrities who allegedly endorsed illegal gambling apps. Actors Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Rana Daggubati are among those under scrutiny.
This probe is part of a broader crackdown. It includes the high-profile Mahadev Online Book app, which authorities suspect of multiple financial violations. The platform reportedly operated from Chhattisgarh and has been linked to other criminal investigations.
At present, over a dozen cases connected to illegal gambling operations remain active. The ED’s actions signal an intensified effort to hold both digital promoters and distribution platforms accountable. This comes amid India’s growing concerns over unregulated online gambling.
