Robin Uthappa issues statement on arrest warrant, distances himself from companies involved in PF payment default
Robin Uthappa issues statement on arrest warrant, distances himself from companies involved in PF payment default
Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa on Saturday issued a statement after an arrest warrant was issued in connection with an alleged Provident Fund (PF) cheating case.
Uthappa, associated with Centuries Lifestyle Brand Private Limited, Strawberry Lenceria Pvt Ltd, and Berryz Fashion House, has been accused of deducting PF contributions from employee salaries but allegedly failing to deposit the funds into their respective accounts.
“In 2018/19, I was appointed 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 I involved in the day-to-day operations of these businesses.
“Given my demanding schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter and commentator, neither did I have the time nor expertise to particpate in their operations. In fact, I do not play an executive role in any other companies I have funded, till date,” Uthappa said in a statement posted on social media.
“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 directorship several years ago,” he added.
According to The Hindu, the warrant was issued by PF Regional Commissioner Shadakshari Gopal Reddy and was executed on December 4, but Uthappa was not found at his Pulakeshinagar residence.
“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 involvment. Despite this, the Provident Fund authorities have continued with proceedings and my legal advisors will take the necessary steps to resolve this in the coming days,” the statement added.
