Key Highlights
- GoI banned 22 online betting apps, including Mahadev Book
- Accused individuals, including a constable from the Chhattisgarh Police, are in custody
- The banned Mahadev app was involved in illegal gambling on various games
Amidst ongoing investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) into the illegal betting app Mahadev Online Book, the Indian government has taken action against the app and 21 others. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued blocking orders against these apps and websites, including Mahadev Book and Reddyannaprestopro. Let’s get into the details of this significant development. Also Read | Apple Lockdown Mode: What Is This Security Feature? How To Use?
Blocking Orders Issued
On Sunday, the government imposed blocking orders against 22 illegal betting apps and websites, among them Mahadev Book Online and Reddyannaprestopro. The Ministry’s decision follows the ED’s probe into an illegal betting app syndicate connected to the Mahadev app case. The government’s actions were prompted by the unlawful operations discovered during investigations and raids on Mahadev Book in Chhattisgarh.
Arrests And Legal Proceedings
Accused individuals Bhim Singh Yadav, a constable in the Chhattisgarh Police, and Asim Das are currently in custody, facing charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The owners of Mahadev Book have also been arrested under Section 19 of PMLA, facing charges for money laundering offenses.
Allegations And Illegal Operations
The ED alleged that the Mahadev app operated by franchising “panel/branches” to known associates, with a 70-30 profit-sharing ratio. The app was used to join new users, create IDs, and launder money through a complex network of Benami bank accounts. This operation reportedly generated a shocking daily revenue of Rs. 200 crore.
The Mahadev app scandal revolved around an online betting platform enabling illegal gambling on various games, including poker, card games, badminton, tennis, football, and cricket. The app was run by Saurabh Chandrakar, based in Dubai, and his accomplice Ravi Uppal, both hailing from Chhattisgarh. Chandrakar’s journey from a former juice seller to an app operator adds another layer of intrigue to the story.
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