Kerala HC issues notices to celebrities for endorsing online rummy

The Kerala High Court sent notices to brand ambassadors of online rummy games - cricketer Virat Kohli, actor Aju Varghese, and actress Tamannaah Bhatia - and sought their explanation within 10 days. The court also issued notice to the Kerala government regarding internet gambling.

Ernakulam (Kerala): The Kerala High Court on Wednesday issued notices to cricketer Virat Kohli, actress Tamannaah Bhatia, and actor Aju Varghese -- all brand ambassadors of online rummy games.

The High Court sought an explanation from the brand ambassadors within 10 days, in connection with a petition seeking legal prohibition on online rummy games.

The court also issued a notice to the state government regarding internet gambling.

Earlier last year, the Tamil Nadu High Court had also issued notices to several prominent personalities, including Kohli and Bhatia on a PIL, which sought action against online gambling platforms and against the ambassadors allegedly promoting such platforms.

The prominent personalities were asked why did they endorse gambling apps despite knowing that it can influence people.

Strongly reacting on the endorsement of online games, the judges commented that many of the celebrities are focused on filling their pockets rather than the wellness of the public.

They questioned that despite knowing that people would follow them, why are the celebrities endorsing such games.

Read:Notices sent to prominent personalities for endorsing gambling apps