Bengaluru Police sends Arrest Warrant back, EPFO to take next action against Robin Uthappa in alleged Fraud

Former India player Robin Uthappa had an arrest warrant against him due to an alleged Provident Fund fraud to his employees.

Uthappa's company, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands, is alleged to have withheld PF contributions from its employees but failed to deposit the money in their accounts. This has caused financial problems for the workers, as the company owes nearly ₹23.36 lakh in damages.

The Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, Shadakshiri Gopala Reddy, stated that this failure has delayed the settlement of PF accounts for affected employees.

On December 4, 2024, the commissioner directed the Pulakeshi Nagar Police to execute an arrest warrant for Uthappa to recover the dues. But when the Karnataka Police visited Uthappa's house in Pulakeshinagar, they discovered he no longer resides there. It has been reported that Uthappa moved to Dubai with his family over a year ago.

According to Gulf News, Uthappa permanently relocated to Dubai in early 2023 after obtaining a Golden Visa.

What Happens Next?

The case has serious legal and financial implications. By not following PF regulations, the company's actions have hurt both its employees and the government. MyKhel had a talk with the Pulakeshinagar Police Station and the Bengaluru police has mentioned that they have already sent the warrant back and won't play any part in the saga anymore.

"We have sent it back. He is not staying at the address. When we went there, we came to know that he is in Dubai. We have nothing to do anymore. Now the Provident Fund Organization will take the next action," the SHO of Pulakeshinagar told MyKhel.

It is to be seen how things unfold as the ex-India player can land in bigger trouble if he fails to pay the PF amounts of his employees.