Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has found himself in a controversy due to an advertisement for the online gaming app Big Cash Poker, where he portrays a police officer. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has raised concerns about the ad, alleging that it tarnishes the image of the Maharashtra Police by linking the force to gambling, and has called for legal action against both Nawazuddin and the gaming platform’s owner, Ankur Singh.
The organization claims that Nawazuddin’s portrayal of a police officer, encouraging people to play poker, sends the wrong message, associating law enforcement with gambling activities. The Samiti has written a formal complaint to the Mumbai Police Commissioner and the Director General of Maharashtra Police, urging them to take action against the actor and the gaming platform under the Maharashtra Police Act 1951 and Maharashtra Civil Services Rules 1979.
Concerns Over Police Uniform Misuse
One of the key issues raised by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti is the improper use of police uniforms in the advertisement. The organization believes that using the image of a police officer to promote gambling is a violation of the dignity and hard work of the police force. In their letter, they emphasized that such representations could lead to the illegal use of police uniforms, undermining the public perception of law enforcement.
Lack of Action from Authorities?
In a statement, Abhishek Murukate, a member of the organization, expressed disappointment that no official action has been taken by the police regarding the advertisement. He criticized the silence of the authorities, stating that it is unfortunate that external parties have had to step in and file complaints over the misuse of the police image in a gaming ad.
Calls for Government Intervention
The Samiti has not only approached the police but has also requested the intervention of Maharashtra’s Home Minister, Devendra Fadnavis. The organization hopes that the Minister will address the issue and take necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring that the image of law enforcement is not misused in any form of media.
