Picture Credit: X
Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa on Saturday, December 21 was handed an arrest warrant in alleged case of Provident Fund (PF) fraud. The former India all-rounder was caught in a controversy after Shadakshara Gopal Reddy, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner - II and Recovery Officer, KR Puram, Bengaluru issued a warrant in a fraud case, amounting INR 23.36 Lakh.
Uthappa, who previously served as Director at Centuries Lifestyle Brand Private Limited was accussed of deducting PF contributions from employee's salaries, but not depositing the funds in their respective accounts. Just hours after the news came into limelight, the former cricketer himself took to social media to finally give a clarification on the matter.
Robin Uthappa issues clarification in PF fraud case
Taking to X (formerly called Twitter), Uthappa has finally broken silence in an elaborated post. The 39-year-old claimed that he is not involved in day-to-day operations of the company and had resigned as the Director several years ago. "In light of recent news of the PF case against me, I would like to provide some clarification with regards to my involvement with Strawberry Lencería Pvt. Ltd., Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., and Berryz Fashion House,” his statement began.
“In 2018-19, I was appointed as a director in these companies due to my financial contributions to them in the form of loans. However, I did not have an active executive role, nor was I involved in the day-to-day operations of the businesses. Given my demanding schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator, neither did I have the time nor expertise to participate in their operations. In fact, I do not play an executive role in any other companies I have funded, till date. Regrettably, these companies failed to repay the funds I lent them, leading me to initiate legal proceedings, which are currently sub judice. I also resigned from my directorships several years ago,” he clarified.
Urging the media to present actual and correct facts, Uthappa further addressed, “When the Provident Fund authorities issued notices demanding payment of dues, my legal team responded, highlighting that I had no role in these companies and provided documentation from the companies themselves confirming my lack of involvement.” “Despite this, the Provident Fund authorities have continued with proceedings, and my legal advisors will take the necessary steps to resolve this matter in the coming days. I would also like to urge the media to kindly present complete facts and to verify the authenticity of information being shared," he concluded.
According to the order issued, Robin Uthappa can void the warrant if he settles the pending amount on or by December 27 or else he will be arrested in the matter of PF fraud allegations. However, as per clarification from the former cricketer himself, his team of lawyers are already looking into the matter.
