Robin Uthappa.
Credit: X/@robbieuthappa
Bengaluru: n a relief to cricketer Robin Uthappa, the Karnataka High Court on Tuesday stayed further proceedings with regards to various recovery certificates and execution warrant issued by the Employees Provident Fund Organization (EPFO). Vacation judge Justice Suraj Govindaraj passed the interim order.
An arrest warrant was issued against Uthappa in furtherance of execution proceedings.
The authorities had initiated proceedings in connection with alleged default by a firm by name Centaraus Lifestyle Brands Pvt Ltd for alleged violation under Employees Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act to the tune of Rs 23.34 lakh PF arrears.
The petitioner claimed that he is only an investor and as per the agreement dated March 17, 2018, he was indemnified of all liabilities and would not be in charge of the day to day affairs of the companies. According to Uthappa, he neither had time nor inclination in the management of company affairs as he was busy with his cricketing career and TV commentary.
Uthappa stated that he had invested in three companies and that one Krishnadas Thandad Havade and his team have been managing the affairs of these companies.
"Owing to mismanagement, the business of the companies suffered immense losses and I had tendered resignation from the board of directors, including Centaraus Lifestyle Brands Pvt Ltd on May 15, 2020 and the same was acknowledged by the board of directors on May 20, 2020," he stated to in the petition.