Bengaluru: Former cricketer Robin Uthappa has responded to accusations of Provident Fund (PF) fraud, following calls for his arrest. A regional PF commissioner in Bengaluru had claimed that Uthappa, who owns the apparel brand Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt Ltd, had not paid the PF dues for his employees, according to media reports.

In a lengthy social media post on Saturday, Uthappa defended himself, stating that he had resigned from his director's role "several years ago."

He clarified that, during his tenure, he did not have an executive role and was not involved in the company’s day-to-day activities.

"I want to clarify my involvement with Strawberry Lenceria Pvt. Ltd, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd, and Berryz Fashion House in light of the recent PF case," Uthappa explained.

"In 2018-19, I was appointed director in these companies due to financial contributions in the form of loans. However, I did not have an active role in managing the operations of the businesses due to my commitments as a cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator. I did not have the time or expertise to participate in their operations."

Uthappa went on to explain that these companies failed to repay the loans he had provided, leading him to initiate legal proceedings that are still pending.

He confirmed that he resigned from his director positions several years ago.

"Regrettably, these companies failed to repay the funds I lent them, leading me to initiate legal proceedings, which are currently subjudice. I also resigned from my directorships several years ago.

"When the PF authorities issued notices, my legal team responded, clarifying that I had no involvement in the companies and provided documentation confirming this," he added. "Despite this, the PF authorities have continued with proceedings, and my legal team will take the necessary steps to resolve the issue."

Uthappa concluded by urging the media to present complete facts and verify the authenticity of the information being shared. “I would also like to urge the media to kindly present complete facts and to verily the authenticity of information being shared.”