Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa received interim protection and a stay order against an arrest warrant issued in connection with an alleged Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) fraud. The Karnataka High Court Vacation Bench, led by Justice Suraj Govindaraj, granted the reprieve on Tuesday.
The arrest warrant, issued by Shadakshara Gopala Reddy, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner-II and Recovery Officer, sought to recover ₹23,36,602 from Uthappa. The warrant named him as a director of Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., based in Indiranagar, Bengaluru.
Earlier this month, Robin Uthappa broke his silence on the issue via social media, clarifying his position. “In light of recent news regarding the PF case against me, I wish to provide some clarity on my involvement with Strawberry Lencería Pvt. Ltd., Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., and Berryz Fashion House,” he wrote.
ALSO READ: Mitchell Starc’s Availability: Australia Faces Crucial Sydney Test Decisions
Uthappa explained that his role as a director in these companies during 2018–19 stemmed from financial contributions made in the form of loans. “However, I did not have an active executive role, nor was I involved in the daily operations of these businesses,” he added, attributing his non-involvement to his demanding schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator.
#BREAKING | Karnataka High Court stays arrest warrant against Robin Uthappa in fraud case
Tune in to watch all live updates here – https://t.co/uGSfcE5vBU#Karnataka #KarnatakaHighCourt #RobinUthappa pic.twitter.com/GG87K8yrAK
— Republic (@republic) December 31, 2024
He revealed that the companies failed to repay the loans, prompting him to initiate legal proceedings, which remain sub judice. Uthappa also emphasized that he resigned from his directorships several years ago and provided documentation confirming his lack of involvement in the companies’ operations.
“When the Provident Fund authorities issued notices demanding payment of dues, my legal team responded, highlighting my lack of involvement. Documentation from the companies also substantiated this,” Robin Uthappa stated.
ALSO READ: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Jasprit Bumrah Shine On MCG Honours Board
Despite these submissions, the authorities proceeded with the case. Uthappa assured that his legal advisors would take the necessary steps to resolve the matter. He also urged the media to report responsibly and verify information before publishing. The former Karnataka cricketer’s detailed statement aims to dispel misconceptions and provide transparency as the legal process unfolds.
