Robin Uthappa Issues Statement On PF Fraud Allegations

Former Indian Cricketer Robin Uthappa is facing allegations for not paying dues related to PF, with regards to his company Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd. An arrest warrant is issued against him as the allegations say that he has deducted the provident funds from the salary of his employees but not deposited the funds into the accounts of his employees.

In view of the same, Uthappa issued an official clarity on the entire issue, saying that he was appointed as a director solely due to his financial contributions. He stated that he do not have an active executive role and is also not involving the day to day operations of the businesses.

The following is his statement.

I would like to clarify my involvement with Strawberry Lencería Pvt. Ltd., Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., and Berryz Fashion House. In 2018-19, I provided substantial funding to these entities, both personally and through my company, Caffeine Ventures Pvt. Ltd., in the form of loans. These companies were and continue to be under the management and control of a team led by Mr. Krishnadas Thandand Havade.

I was appointed as a director in these companies solely due to my financial contributions. However, I did not have an active executive role, nor was I 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 funded, till date.

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.