EPF fraud: Arrest warrant issued against former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa
Bengaluru: An arrest warrant has been issued against former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa in connection with an alleged Provident Fund (PF) fraud case. Uthappa, who is the director of Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Private Limited, is accused of deducting PF contributions from employees' salaries but failing to deposit the funds into their accounts, defrauding both employees and the government.
Company owes Rs 23.36 lakh in damages
The company allegedly owes Rs 23.36 lakh in damages, and authorities are seeking to recover this amount from Uthappa. The Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, Shadakshiri Gopala Reddy, issued a letter on December 4, 2024, directing Pulakeshi Nagar Police to arrest Uthappa in connection with the case.
Police unable to locate Uthappa
In an attempt to serve the notice, police visited Uthappa's residence but found that he no longer resides at the address. As a result, the arrest warrant was executed for Uthappa.
The statement from the Provident Fund Commissioner’s office read: “This is to inform you that TK Krishna Das, director of M/S Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt Ltd (EST Code (PY/KRP/1524922), located at HAL Second Stage, Indiranagar, has failed to remit damages under sections 7A, 14B, and 7Q of the Employees' Provident Funds (EPF) and Miscellaneous Provisions (MP) Act, 1952 to the tune of Rs 23,36,602, including Rs 6,550 towards recovery.”
Authorities request action against Uthappa
The statement further stated: “You are, therefore, kindly requested to execute the enclosed warrant of arrest for Robin Uthappa, director of the above establishment, through the Thana in charge under whose jurisdiction the employer resides.”
The letter also emphasised the impact on employees: “Due to non-remittance of dues, this office is unable to settle the Provident Fund accounts of the poor workers."
Uthappa's cricketing career
Uthappa, a former international cricketer, represented India in 59 matches. He remains a popular figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has played for several teams over the years.
With ANI inputs