Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a formal chargesheet against popular YouTuber Elvish Yadav and singer Rahul Yadav, popularly known as Fazilpuria, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case pertains to the alleged use of protected wildlife species, including snakes and an iguana, in their online video content, which was monetized for commercial gain.
The investigation revealed that videos such as “32 Bore” and “Fazilpuria Bhai Ke Shoot Pe Russian Se Mulakat Ho Hi Gayi” featured these protected species, violating Section 51 of the Wildlife Protection Act. ED officials allege that the accused earned revenue by posting these videos on YouTube, thereby generating profits from illegal wildlife use.
As part of the probe, the ED has attached assets worth around ₹1 crore linked to the accused. These include agricultural land, fixed deposits, and funds held in bank accounts associated with the individuals and their company, Sky Digital India Pvt. Ltd. The asset attachment is intended to prevent dissipation of the funds while legal proceedings continue.
The chargesheet has been submitted to a special PMLA court in Gurugram, Haryana, which will examine the complaint and decide on the next course of action. The ED’s move highlights the increasing scrutiny on digital content creators and musicians when their work involves illegal wildlife use and potential money laundering.
The case underscores the legal obligations of content creators in India to comply with wildlife protection laws and financial regulations, emphasizing accountability for monetized content that violates statutory provisions.
Conclusion: Legal experts note that the chargesheet marks a significant step in holding influencers and entertainers accountable under both wildlife protection and money laundering laws, setting a precedent for similar cases in the future.