Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa faces an arrest warrant over allegations of Provident Fund (PF) fraud. The warrant, issued by PF Regional Commissioner Shadakshari Gopal Reddy, accuses Uthappa’s private firm, Centuries Lifestyle Brand Private Limited, of deducting ₹23 lakh in PF contributions from employees’ salaries but failing to deposit them.
The Pulakeshinagar police were instructed to act on the warrant, dated December 4. However, Uthappa could not be located at his listed address, reportedly residing in Dubai with his family. Officials stated, “The warrant has been returned as Uthappa was not found at his Pulakeshinagar residence.” The warrant requires police action and a report by December 27.
The PF office highlighted that the non-remittance has stalled account settlements for affected employees. Legal efforts are underway to trace Uthappa and enforce compliance.
Robin Uthappa, who played 59 international matches for India, is remembered for his aggressive batting style, contributing 1,183 ODI runs, including seven half-centuries. A star of the Indian Premier League (IPL), he represented teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Mumbai Indians. Uthappa was a key part of KKR’s championship-winning squad in 2014.
Authorities are intensifying efforts to locate Uthappa and resolve the alleged fraud case.
Read Also;