Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has broken his silence on the controversy surrounding his arrest warrant over a Provident Fund (PF) fraud case.
Uthappa clarified his association with the companies involved—Strawberry Lenceria Pvt. Ltd, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd, and Berryz Fashion House—and staunchly denied any executive role in their operations.
The 39-year-old issued a detailed statement, explaining that he was appointed as a director of the aforementioned companies during 2018-19 solely due to his financial contributions in the form of loans. However, his involvement remained limited due to professional commitments.
Uthappa mentioned that he has never played an executive role in these or any other businesses he has funded.
"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. Ud, 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," Uthappa said through a post on Instagram.
"Regrettably, these companies failed to repay the funds I lent them, leading me to initiate legal proceedings, which are currently sub judice. I also resigned from my directorships several years ago."
"When the Provident Fund authorities issued notices demanding payment of dues, my legal team responded, highlighting that I had no role in these companies and provided documentation from the companies themselves confirming my lack of involvement. Despite this, the Provident Fund authorities have continued with proceedings, and my legal advisors will take the necessary steps to resolve this matter in the coming days. I would also like to urge the media to kindly present complete facts and to verify the authenticity of information being shared," he added.
Earlier, it was reported that Robin Uthappa has until December 27 to settle dues amounting to nearly Rs 24 lakh and failure to comply will result in his arrest.
Uthappa is accused of deducting provident fund contributions from employees' salaries but failing to deposit these amounts into their respective accounts. This alleged fraud is a breach of trust under Section 405 of the Indian Penal Code.
Robin Uthappa represented India in 46 ODIs and 13 T20Is. He was part of the team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2007.
