Former cricketer Robin Uthappa has issued a clarification following allegations of Provident Fund (PF) fraud and demands for his arrest. A regional PF commissioner in Bengaluru accused Uthappa of failing to pay PF dues amounting to ₹23,36,602 for employees of his apparel brand, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt Ltd.
Uthappa Breaks Silence on the Allegations
Addressing the controversy, the 2007 T20 World Cup winner posted a detailed explanation on social media, stating that he resigned from the company’s directorship several years ago. Uthappa clarified that he neither played an executive role nor participated in the company’s daily operations during his tenure as a director.
“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,” Uthappa stated.
He further explained that his commitments as a professional cricketer and media presenter left him no time to manage business operations.
— Robbie Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) December 21, 2024
Legal Proceedings and Lack of Involvement
The cricketer revealed that the companies in question—Strawberry Lenceria Pvt. Ltd, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd, and Berryz Fashion House—failed to repay the loans he extended. As a result, Uthappa initiated legal proceedings, which are currently sub judice.
He added that when the PF authorities issued notices, his legal team responded, providing evidence and documentation from the companies confirming his lack of involvement. Despite this, proceedings have continued, and Uthappa assured that his legal advisors are addressing the matter.
“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,” Uthappa clarified.
Also Read: BBMP Issues Notice to Virat Kohli’s ‘One8 Commune’ Over Fire Safety Violations
Media Responsibility and Next Steps
Concluding his statement, Uthappa urged the media to report responsibly and verify facts before sharing information. He remains committed to resolving the issue legally in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the regional PF commissioner, Shadakshara Gopala Reddy, in a letter dated December 4, has requested Uthappa’s arrest under relevant sections of the Income Tax Act and the Employees’ Provident Funds & Miscellaneous Provisions Act. The letter calls for Uthappa to be produced before the regional PF commissioner by December 27.