An arrest warrant was issued against Robin Uthappa for being involved in alleged fraud pertaining to the provident fund contributions of the employees of a clothing firm run by him.
As a director of Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Private Limited, Uthappa was said to have cutting PF contributions from employees’ salaries, but failed to deposit money into accounts.
He has time until December 27 to pay the dues of nearly ₹24 lakh, or face arrest. The conpany allegedly owes ₹23.36 lakh in damages.
Regional Provident Fund Commissioner Shadakshiri Gopala Reddy issued a letter to Robin Uthappa on December 4, 2024, and also instructed the Pulakeshi Nagar Police to arrest Uthappa.
Interestingly, the Karnataka police visited Robin Uthappa’s residence to issue a notice. However, the former batter currently resides in Dubai, and instead arrest warrant has been executed for Uthappa.
The 39-year-old shifted his base to Dubai in 2023 to improve the family’s standard of living and also wanted a quality primary education for his children.
Robin Uthappa clarifies on alleged PF fraud
Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa took to Instagram on Saturday to offer clarification regarding the arrest warrant issued against him.
As per Uthappa, he was appointed as the director of three companies, including Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Private Limited. However, he did not have any executive role and was not involved in managing day-to-day operations.
An excerpt from Uthappa’s Instagram post read:
“In light of recent news of the PF case against me, I would like to provide some clarification with regards to my involvement with Strawberry Lenceria Pvt. Ltd, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd, and Berryz Fashion House. 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 l involved in the day-to-day operations of the businesses.
“Given my demanding schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator, neither did I have the time nor expertise to participate in their operations. In fact, I do not play an executive role in any other companies I have lended, till date.”
Robin Uthappa also claimed that he resigned from the directorship of these companies a few years back, after they failed to repay the funds he lent them. He now has taken the case with his legal advisors who will look to resolve the matter soon.
Uthappa remains one of the finest top-order batters in IPL with 4,952 runs in 205 games. He also won IPL trophy with Kolkata Knigh Riders in 2014.
FAQs
What is the track record of Robin Uthappa in ODIs?
934 runs in 46 innings
When did Robin Uthappa last played in IPL?
2022
