The former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa issued a press release following the issuance of an arrest warrant for him in an alleged incident involving the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). Shadakshara Reddy, regional provident fund commissioner II and recovery office, KR Puram, ordered the warrant.
Addressing the claims on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Uthappa clarified his role in the businesses named in the allegations—Strawberry Lenceria Pvt. Uthappa clarified his role in the businesses named in the allegations—Strawberry Lenceria Pvt., Berryz Fashion House, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Uthappa said that although he was named as a director in 2018-19 because of financial contributions made via loans to Berryz Fashion House and Ltd., he had never held an executive or management role nor been involved in the daily operations.
“In 2018-19, I was appointed as director of these companies because of my financial contribution to them in the form of loans. In his official statement, Uthappa said that he did not play an executive role, nor was he involved in the daily operations of the companies.
He also cited a busy schedule as an athlete, TV host, and commentator as the reason for his limited participation. Due to my busy schedule, I did not have the time or expertise to be involved in their operations. “Even now, I don’t actively manage or have executive roles in any company I funded,” he said.
Uthappa explained that the companies had defaulted in repaying the loan he extended, which led him to file legal proceedings against them. “Unfortunately, these companies did not repay the money I loaned them. This led me to start legal proceedings, which are now under judicial review. “I had resigned several years ago from my directorships,” he continued.
Uthappa confirmed that when the Provident Fund authorities sent notices to Uthappa demanding repayment, his legal team had provided documentation to prove his lack of involvement in managing the companies. Uthappa said that his legal team provided documentation to prove my lack of involvement in the management of the companies.
Background of the case
Uthappa’s arrest warrant is a result of alleged nonpayment of provident funds. Authorities claim that failure to pay these funds has hampered the settlement of EPF accounts for workers who have been affected by the delays. The order directs Pulakeshinagar Police officers to arrest Uthappa and bring him before the recovery officer no later than December 27, 2024.
The order of the senior officer stated that “due to non-remittances dues, this Office is unable to settle the provident fund’s accounts of poor workers.” It is based upon provisions in Rule 73, IInd Schedule of Income Tax Act 1961 and Section 8B, Employees’ Provident Funds & Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1952.
Robin Uthappa
Robin Uthappa is a well-known figure in Indian Cricket. He has played for India in 59 games across all formats. He played for the Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings franchises. Uthappa is a prominent figure in Indian sports and currently lives in Dubai. He has transitioned to the broadcasting profession.
