Arrest warrant issued against former cricketer Robin Uthappa over Rs 24 lakh EPF fraud

An arrest warrant has been issued against former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa in connection with an alleged fraud involving employee provident fund (EPF) contributions at Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based company where he serves as a director.

The warrant stems from unpaid dues of nearly ₹24 lakh related to EPF contributions of the company’s employees. Uthappa has been given until December 27 to clear the outstanding amount, failing which he could face arrest.

The warrant of arrest issued by Shadakshara Gopala Reddy, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner – II and Recovery Officer, K R Puram stated that ₹23,36,602 is to be recovered from Uthappa, the defaulter.

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In his order to the Station House Office of Pulakeshinagar Police Station, the senior officer stated, “Due to non remittances of dues, this office is unable to settle the Provident Fund accounts of the poor workers. In view of the above, you are kindly requested to execute the enclosed warrant of arrest through the Thana in-charge under whose jurisdiction Sri Robin Uthappa resides.”

Uthappa was part of the country’s 2004 Under-19 World Cup team. He made his India debut two years later and featured in 46 ODIs and 13 T20Is for India. He scored 934 and 249 runs in ODIs and T20Is.

He has 9446 first class and 6534 List A runs under his belt. Uthappa has won two IPL trophies — one for KKR and one for CSK in 2014 and 2021 respectively.

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